Vs and CPT based evaluation of location with high liquefaction damage during 2018 Palu earthquake

Abstract

Palu earthquake occurred on 28 September 2018 caused severe liquefaction damages for the city. Based on field surface damage survey by Indonesia Geology Agency, a location was classified within the high liquefaction damage area. The pre-event soil characteristics of this location was provided by resutls of MASW (Multichannel Analysis of Surface Wave) and CPT (Cone Penetration Test) surveys. The soil deposit could characteristized by relatively low shear wave velocity (Vs) and low of cone resistance (qc) values. The potential liquefaction presented by safety factor (0.6 to 0.9) obtained based on both methods was consistent to depths from 2.0 m to 5.0 m. This safety factor appears to be consistent with the high liquefaction damage reported by the Agency.