Liquefaction-induced ground displacement

Liquefaction-induced ground displacement is one of the most important concerns for the engineers for studying liquefaction phenomenon, often leading to considerable damage to infrastructure and buildings. Soil liquefaction poses significant challenges in seismic engineering, particularly in areas with loose, saturated soils, leading to catastrophic structural failures during earthquakes. This study aims to investigate the relation between the depth of liquefaction and its manifestation on the ground in the form of displacement. Both Lateral displacement and settlement are considered for this study. It is aimed to enhance the understanding of liquefaction behavior through advanced numerical modeling techniques while incorporating findings from recent studies to validate and refine the modeling approach. A two-dimensional framework in PLAXIS is employed to simulate the complex interactions between seismic loading and soil behavior. A thirteen layered soil profile is modeled in PLAXIS 2D based on soil properties available from field test. The position of liquefiable layer is changed from the top to the bottom of the soil profile. About eleven seismic cases are studied to ensure comprehensive analysis. The study reveals the significant role of the depth of the liquefiable layer in the magnitude and distribution of the ground displacement during various seismic events. The manifestation of liquefaction on the ground in the form of displacement tends to decrease gradually with increasing depth of liquefaction layer. It means although liquefaction occurs, after a certain depth its effect on ground is insignificant and can be neglected. However, it also reveals the more vital role of stiffness and thickness of liquefiable layer in excess pore pressure generation and displacement. The thicker liquefiable layer means more sand densification and more settlement on the ground. The sand deposits with less SPT-N values are more prone to liquefaction and can lead to larger ground displacement. Ultimately, this study aims to enhance predictive capabilities in seismic risk assessments using numeral modelling and simulation. It contribute to safer engineering practices in geotechnical design. Keywords: Liquefaction, Lateral displacement, Settlement, PLAXIS 2D, Liquefiable layer