Seismic Response of Deep Foundations in Liquefiable Ground: A Numerical Investigation

Pile foundations support critical infrastructure such as bridges, ports, and energy facilities, particularly in earthquake-prone regions. During strong earthquakes, saturated soils can undergo liquefaction, a process in which soil temporarily loses strength due to increased pore water pressure. This can impose large vertical and lateral forces on pile foundations, increasing the risk of structural damage or failure.

Current design standards acknowledge liquefaction risks but do not provide clear or unified methods to accurately predict pile behaviour under these conditions. As a result, engineers often rely on simplified assumptions that may underestimate structural demands or lead to overly conservative designs.

This project aims to improve the understanding and prediction of pile foundation performance in liquefiable soils using advanced three-dimensional numerical modelling. The research will simulate key mechanisms such as pore water pressure buildup, soil–pile interaction, downdrag, and lateral ground movement during earthquakes.

A central component of the project is model validation using high-quality field data from the 2012 Emilia earthquake in Italy. By comparing numerical results with observed field performance, the project will develop more reliable modelling approaches and practical insights for engineering design. The knowledge gained will contribute to safer, more resilient infrastructure and strengthen seismic engineering practices in Canada.

Faculty Supervisor:

Mourad Karray

Student:

Partner:

Université de l'Aquila

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Construction; Sustainability and the Environment; Other

University:

Université de Sherbrooke

Program: