Three-phase coupled seismic analyses of unsaturated/saturated grounds

Abstract

The role of pore air pressure on seismic behavior of unsaturated sandy soil is discussed through recent numerical simulations with three-phase and simplified two-phase coupled analyses. Equations governing the dynamic deformation of unsaturated soil were briefly shown based on porous media theory and constitutive models. The validity of three-phase coupled analysis and the applicability of simplified two-phase coupled analysis are discussed through simulations of cyclic triaxial test, seismic behaviors of horizontal ground and embankments.