Experimental analysis of sodium polyacrylate applications against the liquefaction problem in terms of settlement and pore pressure

It is a fact that liquefaction, which is defined as the temporary loss of bearing capacity in liquefiable soils, is a major problem that causes serious loss of life and property during earthquakes. Therefore, in this study the chemical sodium polyacrylate (SPA) is implemented to decrease the liquefaction potential, and to minimize the harmful effects on soil-structure interaction as a key improvement method against liquefaction. The extraordinary water absorption capacity of this material and the sealing property of a trace cement addition are used logically to absorb pore water and increase viscosity by changing the water's phase into a gel state. In total, twenty-five cases are performed, consisting of a horizontal layer, a vertical barrier and a complete mixing operation, according to different chemical ratios and application positions. As a result of shaking table tests, a better effect is obtained when the horizontal layer is placed close to the ground surface, while the optimum content of the mentioned chemical is found to be around 0.5% by weight in the vertical barrier and complete mixing applications in terms of excess pore water pressure and settlement values. It has been determined that the most important improvement parameters are the optimum SPA content and water supply condition, rather than the excessive addition of chemicals to the soil, regardless of the application type. The settlement potential of base plate was limited due to the counterbalancing of excess pore water pressure in sandy soil by the swelling pressure of SPA.