Shaking model tests on liquefaction mitigation of embedded lifeline

Abstract

The gigantic earthquake in 2011 caused significant damage in lifeline in the Tokyo Metropolitan area. In particular, the damage was significant in recent artificial islands where liquefaction affected embedded sewage pipelines profoundly. The encountered problem is that the entire subsoil liquefied in addition to loose backfill soils, and that the damage of branch lines introduced liquefied sand into trunk sewage lines, leading to difficult problem of sand clogging. Moreover, the same problem is expected to occur in other areas where strong earthquakes are expected in near future. The present paper addresses the ongoing model tests by which a variety of mitigation measures for sewage pipelines are examined. In the regions where future earthquake is expected, it is not possible to excavate pipes and reconstruct backfills now because of financial limitations. To cope with this situation, less expensive measures such as mechanical constraint, partial injection of grout, or limited installation of drainage measures are studied.