Shaking table model tests on dynamic response of pile groups under liquefaction-induced large ground displacement

A series of shaking table model tests on pile groups in liquefiable ground were designed and conducted. The tests reproduced the macroscopic phenomena of soil liquefaction, soil flow and the large displacement of pile caps. The study focused on the dynamic responses of the ground and pile foundations. Results indicated that for liquefied slope ground with pile groups, soil flow can be classified as partial and overall soil flow. The evolution process and space distribution of the vibration pore water pressure were influenced by soil flow, and the soil mass between piles was relatively difficult to be liquefied. The greater the slope angle, the greater the dynamic earth pressure acting on the pile side and the lateral displacement of pile caps. In the meantime, the inclination of pile foundation weakened the bending moment response of pile shaft. For both inclining and horizontal ground, the maximum bending moment occurred at the interface of the liquefied and non-liquefied layers along the shaft.