The effect of structures on the wave-induced liquefaction potential of seabed sand deposits

One of the important design considerations for marine structures situated on sand deposits is the potential for instability caused by the development of excess pore pressure as a result of wave loading. A build-up of excess pore pressure may lead to initial liquefaction. The current practice of liquefaction analysis in marine deposits neglects the effects of structures over seabed deposits. However, analyses both in terrestrial and marine deposits have shown that the presence of a structure, depending on the nature of the structure and initial soil conditions, may decrease or increase the liquefaction potential of underlying deposits. In the present study, a wave-induced liquefaction analysis is carried out using mechanisms similar to earthquake-induced liquefaction. The liquefaction potential is first evaluated using wave-induced liquefaction analysis methods for a free field. Then by applying a structure force on the underlying sand deposits, the effect of the structure on the liquefaction potential is evaluated. Results showed that depending on the initial density of the sand deposits and different structures, water depths and wave characteristics, the presence of a structure may increase or decrease the liquefaction potential of the underlying sand deposits.