Dynamic Behavior of Pile-Supported Structures with Batter Piles according to the Ground Slope through Centrifuge Model Tests

Abstract

Pile-supported structures incorporating batter piles are commonly used, and can be installed both on the horizontal and inclined ground. Recent studies have considered the positive role of batter piles during earthquakes, highlighting their satisfactory contribution to structural seismic performance. However, in these structures, even though the dynamic system responses can vary greatly depending on the ground slope, few previous studies have evaluated the seismic performance of batter piles relative to the ground slope. Therefore, this study evaluates the seismic performance of pile-supported structures with batter piles, relative to the ground slope using dynamic centrifuge model tests. The acceleration, displacement, moment, and axial force of the system were experimentally derived and reviewed, and the pile moment and axial force (M–N) interaction diagrams of the pile cross-sections were analyzed. The installation of the batter piles resulted in a greater reduction in the system response in the inclined-ground model (acceleration: −48%, displacement: −50%, and moment: −84%) compared to that in the horizontal-ground model (acceleration: −27%, displacement: +650%, and moment: −77%). Overall, batter piles showed better seismic performance in the inclined-ground model than in the horizontal-ground model.