Using a reliability-based analysis for evaluating soil liquefaction potential

Muhsin Elie Rahhal, Dona Zakhem

In the proceedings of: GEO2011: 64th Canadian Geotechnical Conference, 14th Pan-American Conference on Soil Mechanics and Geotechnical Engineering, 5th Pan-American Conference on Teaching and Learning of Geotechnical Engineering

Session: Probability and Reliability-based Design

ABSTRACT: Simplified methods based on in-situ tests such as the standard penetration test (SPT) and the cone penetration test (CPT), are widely used by geotechnical engineers for assessing the liquefaction potential of soils. The four studied methods are those recommended by the NCEER and those proposed by Boulanger and Idriss. In our study, a reliability analysis, based on conventional probability theory, is used to calculate the relationship between the liquefaction probability and reliability index on one hand, and the traditional factor of safety on the other hand. The case study is in Qatar in the Persian Gulf. Hundreds of CPT and SPT tests have been carried out at this site. Uncertainty in the evaluation of peak horizontal earthquake induced ground acceleration is considered. It is observed that the probability of liquefaction drastically changes for a small change in the factor safety.

RÉSUMÉ: Des méthodes simplifiées basées sur les essais in-pénétration au cône statique (CPT), sont très utilisées par les ingénieurs de liquéfaction de sols. Les quatre méthodes étudiées sont celles recommandées par le NCEER et celles proposées par Boulanger et Idriss. Dans notre étude, une analyse fiabiliste basée sur la théorie de probabilité conventionnelle est utili le coefficient traditionnel de sécurité considérée. Il est observé que la probabilité de liquéfaction est modifiée significativement pour un léger changement du coefficient de sécurité.

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Cite this article:
Muhsin Elie Rahhal; Dona Zakhem (2011) Using a reliability-based analysis for evaluating soil liquefaction potential in GEO2011. Ottawa, Ontario: Canadian Geotechnical Society.

@article{GEO11Paper548,author = Muhsin Elie Rahhal; Dona Zakhem ,title = Using a reliability-based analysis for evaluating soil liquefaction potential,year = 2011}