A Study on the Assesment of Liquefaction Potential in Korea

In this research, a modified method based on Seed & Idriss theory is developed for assessing liquefaction potential. The modified method is made in principle by comparing the shear stress induced by earthquake to the liquefaction strength of soil deposits. The shear stress, in the modified method, should be evaluated with seismic response analysis. And the liquefaction resistance strength of saturated sandy soil deposits can be investigated by using SPT-N values--Simple method-- or cyclic triaxial test--Strict method. The performance of modified method in practical examples is demonstrated by applying it to liquefaction analysis of artificial remediation zones with dimensions and material properties similar to those in a typical field. From the result of comparing the conventional procedure using Seed & Idriss theory with the modified method, it is found that the modified method can evaluate liquefaction potential with respect to local earthquake magnitude and reasonable cost of aseisimic design. Based on the data-base of liquefaction hazard zones evaluated by the modified method around ports and harbors, geographical information system (GIS) including a liquefaction hazard map will be constructed.