Liquefaction analysis of ash embankments using SPT and CPT data

Abstract

Among the various effects of earthquakes on embankments, the most critical issue that arises is whether Liquefaction of the embankment foundation may occur and, if so, what will be the consequences. Liquefaction analysis of earth and rock fill dams is a complex one and the complexity is further multiplied when it is applied to ash embankments because many features of ash behavior during earthquake loading are unknown. This project analyses the Liquefaction Potential of Ash Embankments using Standard penetration test (SPT) and Cone penetration test (CPT) values.
The method (IITK-GSMDA) used for the analysis of Dams has been extended for evaluating liquefaction potential of ash embankments in this project. The validity of (IITK-GSMDA) method has been made with certain case studies available in literature for flat ground. Then this method has been extended to ash embankments. For application to ash embankments, two sites in India have been analyzed where SPT and CPT data are available. The first case of application in ash embankment is located at Korba Super Thermal Power Station (KSTPS), Korba, CG, where eleven SPT bore hole test results are available. Second case histories relate to ash embankment located at Badarpur Thermal Power Station (BTPS), New Delhi, where six SPT bore hole test results and three CPT bore hole test results are available.