Parametric analysis of single pile response in laterally spreading ground

Extensive damage to pile-supported structures has been witnessed in several recent earthquakes (Chi-Chi, 1999; Kobe, 1995, etc.), as a result of liquefaction-induced lateral spreading of slightly sloping ground or free-face topographic irregularities. This paper presents a parametric analysis of the basic pile and soil parameters, as well as the pile–soil interaction mechanisms affecting the response of single piles subjected to such lateral spreading, based on numerical simulation with the nonlinear P–y method. In parallel, a set of design charts and analytical relations is established, for approximate computation of maximum pile deflections and bending moments, using a “theory guided” multi-variable statistical analysis of the numerical predictions. Three different combinations (design cases) of pile head constraints and soil conditions were considered, which are commonly encountered in practice. The overall accuracy of the proposed analytical relations is evaluated against experimental results from seven centrifuge and five large shaking table experiments.

► Defines the basic soil and pile parameters which control the pile response.
► Highlights the importance of liquefied ground flow around the pile.
► Highlights the effect of pile head constraints on pile response.
► Provides charts and relations for the preliminary evaluation of pile response.
► Evaluates the proposed relations against numerical and experimental data.