Centrifuge Seismic Modeling of Pile-Supported Wharves

• Published in: Geotechnical testing journal 2007-09, Vol.30 (5), p.1-11
• Main Authors: McCullough, Nason J., Dickenson, Stephen E., Schlechter, Scott M., Boland, Jonathan C.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Applied sciences; Buildings. Public works; Earthwork. Foundations. Retaining walls; Exact sciences and technology; Geotechnics; Hydraulic constructions; Port facilities and coastal structures. Lighthouses and beacons; Structure-soil interaction
• ISSN: 0149-6115; 1945-7545
• DOI: 10.1520/GTJ14066

Five pile-supported wharf models were dynamically tested in a large-scale geotechnical centrifuge at UC Davis, California. Models representing pile-supported wharf configurations common in the United States were subjected to recorded acceleration time histories. Model variations included single-lift, multi-lift, and cut-slope rock dike configurations with foundation layers of loose liquefiable sand, marine clay, or dense sand, or a combination thereof. In addition, zones of soil were placed to model soil improvement. Structural elements representing pile-supported wharf geometries were placed within the models; some models included all vertical piles, while two of the models included batter piles. In addition, single piles were placed in two of the models and subjected to static cyclic lateral load tests. All models were extensively instrumented with nearly 100 instruments recording accelerations, pore pressures, linear deformations, and pile strains. This paper summarizes the design, construction, and testing of these complex models, and includes a brief summary of the results and recommendations for future modeling.