Flashback Friday: Seismic Stability White Paper
SEISMIC STABILIITY OF DREDGED SLOPES IN THE CHARLESTON AREA
J. L. Withiam, P. F. O’Hara, and M. J. Blasko (Johnson)
ABSTRACT
This paper examines the slope stability under earthquake conditions of a dredged slope in Charleston, South Carolina area. Both circular failure surfaces and wedge-type failure surfaces are examined using limit equilibrium techniques. The effect of variations in river water level is analyzed. Of particular interest in this study, is the effect of the loose sand layer at the interface of the marl and the overlying soils and its influence on slope performance. The effects of pore pressure buildup in this layer are assessed using a sensitivity analysis. In addition to computing factors of safety, total movement of a failure block under earthquake conditions is evaluated.