Seismic performance of near-fault geosynthetic-reinforced pile-supported embankment

Abstract

The seismic performance of embankments is an important consideration for the design and construction of high-speed railways (HSRs) in near-fault areas. Incorporating geosynthetics into embankment soil can improve seismic resistance. However, the effect of different reinforcement methods on the seismic performance of embankments is not well understood. In this study, two 1 : 20 scaled embankment models (full-length-geosynthetic-reinforced pile-supported embankment (FRPE) and turn-back-geosynthetic-reinforced pile-supported embankment (TRPE)) were tested on a shaking table to compare their seismic performance and failure characteristics. The results show that under near-fault bidirectional seismic excitation, the pile foundations of both embankments exhibited bending deformation, with the largest bending moment in the middle of the pile body. The TRPE reduced the vertical dynamic response of the embankment slope but exhibited a more remarkable horizontal dynamic response than the FRPE. Furthermore, the embankment deformation and excess pore water pressure of the TRPE were generally larger than those of the FRPE. Nonetheless, the TRPE has potential application in practical engineering as it ensures earthquake resistance, with higher economic benefits.