Pile foundations play a crucial role in supporting bridges, high-rise buildings, and offshore structures thanks to their robust adaptability and exceptional load-bearing performance. However, when earthquakes strike liquefiable sites, the saturated sand can undergo liquefaction, dramatically reducing the soil’s ability to support these structures. This can lead to reduced bearing capacity, severe deformation, and even total structural collapse. Understanding how pile-structure systems behave during such events is essential for safer engineering designs.
Shaking-Table Experiments Reveal Failure Mechanisms
Recent shaking-table experiments have provided valuable insights into the seismic response and failure mechanisms of articulated pile-structure systems on liquefiable grounds. These studies simulate real earthquake conditions, allowing researchers to monitor how pile foundations interact with liquefied soils. The findings reveal that earthquake-induced liquefaction can compromise the stability of pile-supported structures by causing excessive movement and settlement. Such information is vital for engineers to develop improved pile foundation designs that withstand seismic events, ensuring the safety and longevity of critical infrastructure.
Sources:
Original Article