A new method is proposed to characterize the liquefaction potential of partially saturated sands using P-wave velocity. Based on laboratory test data, an empirical relation that relates the liquefaction resistance with the pore pressure coefficient B is proposed. The liquefaction resistance is defined as the cyclic stress ratio required causing liquefaction at a specified number of cycles. With the aid of a theoretical relation between B and the P-wave velocity, an explicit relationship of more interest is then established between the liquefaction resistance of sand and its P-wave velocity. The significance of this relationship lies in that it allows one to evaluate the liquefaction potential of sand as affected by saturation through the measurement of P-wave velocity, which can be made not only in the laboratory but particularly in the field.
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