CANLEX full-scale experiment and modelling

Abstract

A major aim of the Canadian Liquefaction Experiment (CANLEX) was to verify analysis procedures for predicting liquefaction phenomena. Towards this purpose, two loading events were carried out: a field event comprising a clay embankment built over a loose sand foundation layer, and a centrifuge test performed on a model of a sand embankment structure. Both the field event and the centrifuge model were planned so as to induce a static liquefaction failure and were instrumented to observe their response in terms of displacement and pore pressure. The fundamental mechanical characteristics of the foundation layer were determined from laboratory element tests (triaxial and simple shear). These tests formed the basis for the stress-strain modelling used in the numerical analyses. Two fundamentally different modelling techniques were used. One involved a fully coupled plasticity model, and the other involved a model based on a collapse-surface approach. The model and prototype structures were then analyzed and the predicted results in terms of displacements and pore pressures were compared with the measured values. The results from both approaches were found to be in reasonable agreement with the measurements, provided allowance was made for direction of loading and drainage effects were accounted for.Key words: liquefaction, field experiment, embankment, centrifuge model, elastic-plastic model.

Centrifuge modelling of submarine landslides due to static liquefaction

“…However, this test model is unable to consider the built-up of pore water pressure. Alternatively Byrne et al (2000) built an 8-m high clay embankment with a slope angle of 21.8°over a loose saturated sand layer in the field as part of the Canadian Liquefaction Experiment project. The intent of this field test was to trigger liquefaction in the loose sand layer by applying static load rapidly; however, the embankment was stable during the event.…”