Numerical Simulations of LEAP Dynamic Centrifuge Model Tests for Response of Liquefiable Sloping Ground

Abstract

This paper presents numerical simulations (modified Type-B) related to LEAP-UCD-2017 (Liquefaction Experiments and Analysis Projects) dynamic centrifuge model tests for a liquefiable sloping ground conducted by various institutions. The numerical simulations are performed using a pressure-dependent constitutive model implemented with the characteristics of dilatancy and cyclic mobility. The soil parameters are determined based on a series of available stress-controlled cyclic triaxial tests during the Type-A simulation phase for matching the liquefaction strength curves of Ottawa F-65 sand. The computational framework for the dynamic response analysis is discussed. Computed results are presented for the selected centrifuge experiments (modified Type-B simulations). Measured time histories (e.g., displacement, acceleration and excess pore pressure) of these experiments are reasonably captured. Comparisons between the numerical simulations and measured results showed that the pressure-dependent constitutive model as well as the overall employed computational framework have the potential to predict the response of the liquefiable sloping ground, and subsequently realistically evaluate the performance of an equivalent soil system subjected to seismically induced liquefaction.