On site characterization and air content evaluation of coastal soils by image analysis to estimate liquefaction risk

Abstract

Coastal structures are often submitted to intense wave forcing. In some cases, structures may have stability disorders due to the constant weakening of their foundations and to momentary liquefaction of the sea bed. Studies have shown that if classical geotechnical characterization is a necessity, air content in the soil is also a key parameter for liquefaction evaluation. That is why on site air content measurement and its time variation during a tide period may provide information and help to determine a better understanding of this problem. Unfortunately, this parameter is difficult to measure during investigations. This article presents a technique based on the use of geoendoscopy and automatic image analysis, which makes it possible to characterize coastal soils and to estimate their air content. After a description of the technique, the results obtained on laboratory tests and on a real site are presented.