ABSTRACT
A mechanics-based approach is presented for assessing post-liquefaction displacements of geotechnical structures. The approach is derived from total stress procedures in current use, with two major advantages: (1) the triggering and post-liquefaction response have been synthesized into one analysis, and (2) the modeling of the post-liquefaction element behavior is greatly improved. The approach is presented through the simulation of a case history: the response of the Upper San Fernando dam to the 1971 San Fernando earthquake. The magnitude and pattern of the predicted displacements are shown to be in good agreement with the measured values. The sensitivity of the results to various input parameters is also evaluated.
