Centrifuge model test and numerical interpretation of seismic responses of a partially submerged deposit slope

Abstract

Partially submerged deposit slopes are often encountered in practical engineering applications. However, studies on evaluating their stability under seismic loading are still rare. In order to understand the seismic behavior of partially submerged deposit slopes, centrifuge shaking table model tests (50g) were employed. The responses of horizontal accelerations, accumulated excess pore pressures, deformation mode, and failure mode of the partially submerged deposit slope model were analyzed. In dynamic centrifuge model tests, EQ5 shaking event was applied numerically. The results indicated that in the saturated zone of the deposit slope, liquefaction did not occur, and the measured horizontal accelerations near the water table were amplified as a layer-magnification effect. It was also shown that the liquefaction-resistance of the deposit slope increased under multiple sequential ground motions, and the deformation depth of the deposit slope induced by earthquake increased gradually with increasing dynamic load amplitude. Except for the excessive crest settlement generated by strong shaking, an additional vertical permanent displacement was initiated at the slope crest due to the dissipation of excess pore pressure under seismic loading. The result of particle image velocimetry (PIV) analysis showed that an obvious internal arc-slip was generated around the water table of the partially submerged deposit slope under seismic loading. Keywords: Centrifuge model test, Acceleration responses, Excess pore pressure, Deposit slope