Journal Published Online: 20 January 2014
Volume 37, Issue 2

Evaluation of K in Centrifuge Model Using Shear Wave Velocity

CODEN: GTJODJ

Abstract

The coefficient of earth pressure at rest (Ko) is an important parameter in the analysis and design of geotechnical structures. Methods based on the shear wave velocity (Vs) can be utilized to estimate Ko using the directionality of a shear wave and its dependence on effective stresses. For centrifuge modeling, it is important to understand the in-flight stress states at various locations during loading-unloading-reloading cycles and to develop a direct method for measuring Ko in flight. In this study, previously proposed methods based on Vs (Vs–Ko relationships) were assessed to determine Ko in a centrifuge model using the results of bender element tests performed in a cross-hole configuration. The suitability of the Vs–Ko relationship for the centrifuge test and variation in Ko with respect to location in the centrifuge model were investigated. Through changes in centrifugal acceleration, the loading and unloading stress conditions were simulated, and the Ko value calculated based on the Vs–Ko relationship was compared to values obtained from an earth pressure transducer and via empirical equations. It was found that the method using a single horizontally propagating Vs and one pressure measurement was adequate to evaluate Ko in a centrifuge model. In addition, Ko in the centrifuge model was higher at the center than near the boundary for the unloading stage because of the arching effect.

Author Information

Cho, Hyung
Dept. of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, KR
Park, Heon
Schofield Centre, Dept. of Engineering, Univ. of Cambridge, Cambridge, GB
Kim, Dong
Dept. of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, KR
Choo, Yun
Dept. of Civil and Environmental Engineering, College of Engineering, Kongju National Univ., Cheonan, KR
Pages: 14
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Details
Stock #: GTJ20130060
ISSN: 0149-6115
DOI: 10.1520/GTJ20130060