Numerical investigation of the effect of non-plastic fines on the behavior of an embankment on liquefiable soil subjected to earthquake

This study presents a numerical investigation of the effects of non-plastic fines on the behavior of an embankment constructed on liquefiable soil. The numerical models, developed using OpenSees FEM platform and the PM4Sand constitutive model, simulate centrifuge tests of a homogeneous embankment constructed on liquefiable soil, with different fines contents ( f c = 0%, f c = 5%, and f c = 10%). The numerical models were subjected to both small (PGA=0.1 g) and high amplitude (PGA=0.2 g) base shakings. The performance of these numerical models was validated against the experimental results of centrifuge tests in terms of excess pore pressure, acceleration response and embankment deformation. Additionally, the effect of fines on soil liquefaction was examined using the validated numerical models. The results indicate that the presence of non-plastic fines increases the liquefaction resistance and significantly reduces the settlement of the embankment crest. The addition of non-plastic fines exhibits an improving and reinforcing effect on the liquefiable soil. • New calibrated models for embankments on liquefiable soil with non-plastic fines. • Models satisfactorily validated against centrifuge experimental results. • Effect of non-plastic fines on liquefaction and embankment response investigated.