Simplified method for evaluation of liquefaction based on pressuremeter tests (PMT)

Abstract

Liquefaction is of major concern in many countries subjected to seismic hazard. In practice, prediction of liquefaction is performed using simplified methods based on in situ tests such as the standard penetration test (SPT) or the cone penetration test (CPT). For some applications such as large projects (tunnels, high rise buildings), the Ménard pressuremeter is preferred as it provides a well-established method for foundation design. However, no simplified method to evaluate liquefaction potential has been fully developed for the pressuremeter. Based on pressuremeter calibration chamber and field tests on sands, a chart is proposed for estimating the liquefaction susceptibility of saturated sands. In addition, a method to correct the measured limit pressure from pressuremeter tests is also proposed for tests in sands with fines content. The method was evaluated using extensive data obtained from tests performed in a calibration chamber using clean sand and sand with fines content against 45 pressuremeter tests performed in situ in various soil conditions. Based on these tests, a relationship was obtained between the field data and the chart developed from the calibration chamber tests. The paper also provides suggestions to correct the limit pressure to account for the fines content.