Comparison of liquefaction potential of loess in Lanzhou, China, and Memphis, USA

This paper presents an evaluation of the liquefaction potential of loess in Lanzhou, China, and Memphis, USA. The topography, stratigraphy, and genesi s of loess in these two areas were investigated and compared. Several loess samples in each study area were taken and their physical indices were dete rmined. In addition, the microstructures of these loess samples were invest igated using an electron microscope, and dynamic triaxial tests were perfor med using an artificial seismic wave. The results of this investigation ind icated that both Lanzhou loess and Memphis loess have a potential for lique faction, but Memphis loess is less susceptible to liquefaction. Furthermore , Lanzhou loess and Memphis loess behave differently during ground shaking. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.