A stochastic model for predicting seismic failure in a soil deposit

Liquefaction of saturated sand deposits under seismic excitation is studied on the basis of a fatigue failure approach. The model includes a stochastic treatment of the input, of the soil response and of the cumulative pore pressure effects produced by cycling stresses in the soil. A method of establishing safety factors against liquefaction is also considered. Results obtained from analysis of a case history confirm the applicability of the model for engineering purposes.