Effect of ground properties and embankment height on the embankment failure behavior during earthquake

The objective of this study is to interpret the deformation mechanics of the embankment in Deformation Level 3 (under 500 mm settlements after earthquake occurs). Therefore, in this study, the dynamic centrifugal modeling tests under different conditions (embankment height, ground properties) are carried out and the obtained results are simulated by the soil-water coupling finite deformation analysis (GEOASIA). As a result of these examinations, the main conclusions were summarized as follows: (1) In the deformation behavior of the embankment in Deformation Level 3, the embankment reforms prominently while the ground deforms slightly. (2) The deformation mode of the embankment in Level 3 can be classified into 2 patterns, one is that both toes of the embankment expand and the other is that the circular slip occurs in the slope. It is suggested that effective earthquake proof countermeasure is to reduce the deformation of not the ground but the embankment in the Deformation Level 3.