Liquefaction criteria based on energy content of seismograms

ABSTRACT

Because energy is a more fundamental property or measure of earthquake excitation than peak acceleration and magnitude, several investigators have suggested that the amount of energy generated at specific points in a soil layer un response to earthquake shaking may correlate better with the development of liquefaction than with cyclic stress ratio. Kayen (1993) reviewed the literature on this topic and investigated yhe use of accelerogram energy, expressed in terms of Arias intensity as a parameter for use in evaluating liquefaction resistance of soils. What procedures should be used, and how accurately can Arias intensity be estimated for application at field sites where strong motion records are not avaible? has sufficient case history data and experience been compiled and analyzed to provide adequate verification of the procedure? The workshop encourages continued research to answer these questions and further develop energy procedures for use in engineering practice. (AU)