On the development of novel mitigation techniques against faulting–induced deformation: “Smart” barriers and sacrificial members

Abstract

Abstract Contemporary analysis–design methods against faulting can significantly improve life-safety, but the problem of permanent deformation persists. This paper proposes a novel mitigation technique, addressing post-seismic serviceability. A “smart” barrier is employed to divert the fault rupture, introducing a minimum energy path. The “smart” barrier consists of two sheet-pile walls, connected with rows of sacrificial members. The latter are steel rings, whose performance is a function of geometry. The proposed system can be produced in the form of prefabricated panels, and its performance is largely insensitive to site conditions or workmanship. The barrier is compressed, absorbing tectonic deformation with minimum disturbance to the protected structure. The problem is analyzed employing the FE-method, using a thoroughly validated soil constitutive model with strain softening, confirming the efficiency of the mitigation concept. Further analyses demonstrate the use of sacrificial rings to protect continuous bridge decks, being installed between the deck and the bearings.