On-Demand Webinar : Site Investigation and Parameter Development for Seismic Deformation Analyses of Embankment Dams and Levees
Association of State Dam Safety Officials, 2023
Seismic analyses of foundation soils and earth structures such as embankment dams, levees, and structural fills, as well as soil-structure interaction issues associated with buildings and bridges, lifelines, and port and harbor facilities, are used to reliably predict expected seismic performance and depend on a number of important factors. These include: 1) seismic hazard assessment to evaluate potential seismic hazards at project sites, 2) geological and geotechnical site characterization, 3) parameter development for both potentially liquefiable and non-liquefiable soils and rock, 4) seismic response and performance analyses with suitable implementation of parameterization, analytical models and engineering relationships, 5) consideration of pertinent potential failure modes, 6) assessment of consequences of potential damage to structures, systems and/or infrastructures, and 7) implementation of engineered mitigation, if needed, to improve safety and expected seismic performance and/or to reduce potential loss of life. Over the past several decades, significant advancements have occurred in seismic hazard assessment and approaches, protocols, and computing capabilities for analysis and numerical modeling. However, in the absence of suitable site characterization and parameter development, modern seismic analyses, including seismic deformation analyses, could result in incomplete and/or potentially dangerously misleading assessments regarding the expected seismic performance of an embankment dam or other critical infrastructure during an earthquake.
When it comes to performing geotechnical and geophysical site investigations for seismic analyses, the selection of appropriate methods considering site-specific conditions and project details, as well as the details of the execution of these methods, needs careful consideration. Sequencing and progression of site investigation are also important. This webinar will focus on important aspects of site investigations and parameter development for seismic deformations analyses.
Key Takeaways:
1. Initial and iterative development of suitable potential seismic failure modes (PFMs) and identifying the data that are required for seismic deformation analyses.
2. Evolution of construction practice and evolution of field site investigation and geotechnical laboratory testing.
3. Common issues and challenges that affect the uncertainties in construction and as-built data and considerations for geotechnical and geophysical data collection and interpretation.
4. Cross-checking and updating interpretations as new information arrives.
5. Current procedures and relationships for geotechnical parameter development for modern seismic deformation analyses.
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Speaker(s): Khaled Chowdhury
Revision ID: 7882
Revision Date: 05/27/2024