Liquefaction is a process by which seismic shaking induces excess pore water pressure in loose, poorly-graded sands that are below the water table, causing them to behave like a liquid. The effects of liquefaction can range from surficial sand boils to large ground surface settlements, to lateral spreading of embankments.
Each of our comprehensive preliminary geotechnical reports provides a limited discussion of the liquefaction potential of the on-site soils. Where initial research or drilling indicates a significant potential for liquefiable soils, we can perform a more detailed liquefaction evaluation.
The evaluation will determine:
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- The extent of the liquefiable materials
- The estimated magnitude of total and differential settlements that could occur
- Recommendation measures to mitigate the settlements