Seismic Behavior of Micropiles and Micropiled Structures Used for Increasing Resilience: A Literature Review

Majd Abou Alhaija,Loretta Batali

doi:10.3390/app12052743

Majd Abou Alhaija, Loretta Batali

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.3390/app12052743

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Abstract

The aim of this paper is to present the relevant information and development available in the scientific literature regarding the seismic behavior of micropiles (MPs) and micropiled structures (MPed). The seismic behavior of MPs is not very well studied, but MPs are used in retrofitting of old buildings and for new resilient buildings, and in terms of seismic behavior they have a high potential. Additionally, their association with seismic dampers for improving the seismic behavior of buildings is not yet fully studied and it represents a major topic of interest for both new structures and historical monuments. After the introductory part, the paper describes all relevant information regarding MPs, as types and technology, seismic behavior, applications for increasing seismic resilience, and experimental and numerical modeling.

Highlights

Seismic Behavior of Micropiles and Micropiled Structures Used for During the 1950s, Dr Fernando Lizzi developed the so-called “pali radice” or “root piles”, a technical solution consisting of small diameter, vertical or inclined, micropiles (MPs) used to provide additional resistance to the existing foundation or/and soil
Kaynia et al [18] studied the influence of soil homogeneity on the seismic behavior; the results showed a strong deviation between the two studied cases in terms of damping value and the seismic response; it was observed by the authors that the two types of soil differ considerably in terms of horizontal response and damping value
The results indicated a relation between the soil’s elastic modulus, its Poisson ratio, the rigid inclusion elastic modulus, and the distance between inclusions with the natural frequency, which further proved the ability of numerical modeling to simulate many aspects of the dynamic behavior of MPs or elements similar to MPs

Summary

Introduction

Micropiled Structures Used for During the 1950s, Dr Fernando Lizzi developed the so-called “pali radice” or “root piles”, a technical solution consisting of small diameter, vertical or inclined, micropiles (MPs) used to provide additional resistance to the existing foundation or/and soil. Speaking, MPs are small diameter piles, typically less than 300 mm, drilled and grouted nondisplacement piles, which are typically reinforced [1]. MPs are easy to install in areas with restrictions, such as limited access areas, limitations on vibration, and difficult soil conditions. This is due to the fact the MPs family includes many types and technologies, which give contractors the possibility to develop many “problem-specific solutions”.

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