Response of Earth Banks During Earthquakes

The response of earth banks during earthquakes is evaluated by the finite element method of analysis. Both the horizontal and the vertical components of the earthquake motion are considered. Maximum values and time histories of the response values, including accelerations, displacements, stresses and average seismic coefficients, throughout the bank can be obtained by this method. An independent check on the results is also provided. The method is illustrated by evaluating the response of a clay bank on a clay foundation to both the horizontal and the vertical components of a prescribed earthquake motion. Surface accelerations, stresses at selected points and seismic coefficients for Specified wedges are presented. The stability of the slope during the earthquake is assessed, acceleration response spectra along the surface of the bank are calculated and the influence of the vertical component of the earthquake is examined. In addition, the influence of material properties and height of bank on response values is examined.