Techno Press
Techno Press

Earthquakes and Structures
  Volume 31, Number 1, July 2026 , pages 051-69
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12989/eas.2026.31.1.051
 


Seismic response characteristics of variable cross-section pile group foundations in liquefiable soil conditions
Shihao Zhou, Zhongju Feng, Cong Zhang, Fuchun Wang, Jikun Wang

 
Abstract
    This study investigates the seismic response of large-diameter variable cross-section pile group foundations in liquefiable sandy soils through shaking table testing. The proposed pile configuration adopts enlarged upper sections and reduced lower sections. Four seismic inputs (5010, 1004, Kobe, and El Centro) with a peak acceleration of 0.20 g were applied to evaluate liquefaction development and pile dynamic response. Excess pore pressure, acceleration amplification, lateral displacement, and bending moment distributions were analyzed. Results show that seismic loading induces significant liquefaction, with pore pressure ratios reaching 0.6-0.8. Acceleration responses exhibit amplification and phase lag along the pile. The 1004 wave produces the largest acceleration and bending moment responses, while the El Centro wave causes the maximum lateral displacement. Residual deformation occurs in all cases, indicating permanent soil-structure interaction effects. The variable cross-section pile configuration demonstrates improved seismic deformation resistance and bending moment redistribution capacity, guiding the seismic design of bridge foundations in marine seismic regions.
 
Key Words
    bridge engineering; dynamic response; liquefaction of sand; seismic design; shaking table model test
 
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