Cyclic undrained behavior and post liquefaction settlement of a nonplastic silt

Abstract

This study presents an investigation into liquefaction and post-liquefaction behavior of a nonplastic silt under cyclic loading. A systematic approach was adopted for assessment of above-mentioned behavior by performing cyclic triaxial tests on saturated specimens in terms of pore water pressure build-up characteristics, effective stress, number of cycles and double amplitude axial strain. The specimens, consolidated under an effective confining pressure of 100 kPa, were prepared at relative densities ranging among 30–80%. The results revealed that the axial strains of specimens of lower relative densities were increased at higher CSR levels. For prediction of pre- and post-liquefaction behavior, a family of curves for establishing relationships among factor of safety to liquefaction, post-liquefaction volumetric strain and relative density were established. These curves, along with the calculation of post-liquefaction volumetric strain, may be useful in estimation of settlements of silt after being subjected to cyclic loading.