Field-observed phenomena of seismic liquefaction and subsidence during the 2008 Wenchuan earthquake in China

In the 2008 Wenchuan earthquake in Sichuan Province, a large number of buildings, water conservancy facilities, and transportation facilities were severely damaged. The damage caused by liquefaction and earthquake-induced soil subsidence was widely distributed, diverse, and extensive. Typical liquefaction and earthquake-induced subsidence damage for this region has been described by investigations of soils and foundations in the earthquake-stricken area. Factors that influenced the liquefaction of soils in Dujiangyan County were analyzed, accounting for regional geological conditions. The results identify several factors that may affect the process of liquefaction and general damage to buildings, roads, levees, and dams. Such factors could serve as the basis for further research into mitigating the damage caused by earthquake-induced liquefaction and subsidence. The importance of detailed ground reconnaissance and the implementation of reasonable and effective measures to improve soft soil are proposed for earthquake hazard reduction in similar areas. Copyright Springer Science+Business Media B.V. 2010