PROBABILISTIC LIQUEFACTION RISK ANALYSIS INCLUDING FUZZY VARIABLES

A new method of probabilistic liquefaction risk analysis is developed. The variables whose effect on the process of liquefaction are known v aguely and described only through imprecise linguistic terms, are trea ted as fuzzy variables. The combined effect of the fuzzy variables is introduced into a basic model of liquefaction by the evaluation of an average fuzzy number which is then transformed into a random variable. The probability of liquefaction is then formulated in the usual frame work of probabilistic risk analysis. Illustrative example analyses are also presented. Copyright (C) 1996 Elsevier Science Limited.