ABSTRACT

Using a similarity rule of centrifuge model test in distinct element analysis can save the number of elements and shorten time needed to reproduce dynamic problem and consolidation process, which can reduce calculation-time. However, the similarity rule of centrifuge model test in dynamic problem is based on a theory of elastic vibration. It is not clear whether it is valid or not in the range of large deformation. Moreover, it is often said that ground deformation will be influenced by size effects of particles, since the size of sand’s particle in centrifuge model corresponds to that of gravel’s in prototype. In this paper, distinct element analysis on ground deformation of a river dike due to seismic liquefaction was carried out to investigate the validity of similarity rule and size effects of particles in centrifuge model test, and then the factors influenced on ground deformation in centrifuge model tests were discussed from the view point of micromechanics.