Liquefaction susceptibility mapping using geotechnical laboratory tests

Abstract

ABSTRACT:The soil liquefaction potential has been evaluated for the Ariana Region because of its important socioeconomic interest and its location. Liquefaction susceptibility mapping is carried out using a decisional flow chart for evaluation of earthquake-induced effects, based on available data such as paleoliquefaction, geological, groundwater depth, seismotectonic, sedimentary features and geotechnical parameters in particular laboratory testing like grain size analyses and state parameters. Survey results showed that some of these localities are considered as possible sites to soil liquefaction. Indeed, Quaternary alluvium deposits, paleo beaches and recent deposits that edge the lake and the sebka constitute the most susceptible locations to liquefaction. In the east and the west sides of the studied zone, Quaternary deposits are less susceptible to the liquefaction due to the groundwater level deepening and to the relatively old age of the deposits. Elsewhere sedimentary formations are classified as non-liquefiable as they are heavily compacted and old.

Urban geological mapping: Geotechnical data analysis for rational development planning

“…Compressive tectonics caused several important earthquakes. Epicenter distribution map for the period between 856 and 2000 shows that Tunis area is characterized by a low magnitude of earthquakes (1.4 to 3.8) (El May et al, 2009). Earthquakes of magnitude M N 4 are localized especially in Tunis, Ariana, Chaouat, Sidi Thabet and Utique region.…”

“…Several urban geological studies of some cities provide good examples for this approach (Baker, 1975;Akpokodje, 1979;Edbrooke et al, 2003;Haworth, 2003;Nott, 2003;Willey, 2003;Özsan et al, 2007;El May et al, 2009).…”

Engineering-geological and geotechnical investigation for risk assessment

“…The sediment properties and hydrogeological conditions make the site favorable for seismic wave amplification. As a result the soil is prone to liquefaction and increased damage [8][9][10].…”

“…Tunis City is a complex geological structure [9,10]. During the geological history of the area, sedimentary events have influenced deposit characteristics, as well as morphology of the site.…”

“…During the geological history of the area, sedimentary events have influenced deposit characteristics, as well as morphology of the site. Sedimentation of thick detritus materials in the Tunis lagoon shore evokes an old estuary [9][10][11]. Slope stability is one of the most severe problems affecting urban planning in the study area.…”