Centrifuge Modeling of an Embankment Resting on Liquefiable Ground: Investigation of the Effects of a Low Amount of Nonplastic Fines

Abstract

This paper presents an experimental study on the effects of low amounts of nonplastic fines on the behavior of an embankment resting on liquefiable ground through centrifuge modeling. In the dynamic centrifuge tests, a homogeneous embankment was constructed on liquefiable silty sand ground prepared with a mixture of Hostun sand (HN31) and nonplastic fines (C500). The liquefiable ground was prepared by considering a constant sand matrix concept with different fines content (fc=0%, fc=5%, and fc=10%). The centrifuge models were subjected to successive dynamic excitations with different intensities. The effect of the fines on soil liquefaction was investigated by: (1) comparing the recorded accelerations and excess pore pressures; and (2) analyzing the formation of liquefaction zones in the models and the deformation of the embankment. Experimental results indicate that, based on the constant sand matrix concept, the presence of fines increased the liquefaction resistance, significantly limited the deformation of the embankment, and reduced the ground settlement. The addition of fines exhibits an improvement effect on the liquefiable ground. This study provides novel insights into the liquefaction resistance of ground soil containing a low amount of nonplastic fines as well as the deformation behavior of the embankment.