Remediation of buried pipeline system subject to ground rupture using low-density backfill

경량채움재를 활용한 지반영구변위에 대한 지중관 시스템의 개량기법

A remediation technique for buried pipeline system subject to permanent ground deformation is proposed. Specifically, EPS (expanded polystyrene) geofoam blocks are used as low density backfill, thereby reducing soil restraint and pipeline strains. In order to evaluate this remediation technique, a series of 12 centrifuge model tests with HDPE pipe were performed. The amount or spatial extent of the low density backfill was varied, as well as the orientation of the pipe with respect to the fault offset. Specifically, in the $-63.5^{\circ}$ test, the orientation was such that the pipe was placed in flexure and axial tension. The $-85^{\circ}$ orientation placed the pipe mainly in flexure. In all cases, the behavior of the remediated pipe was compared to that for the unremediated pipe. The geofoam backfill was successful in improving pipe behavior for two of the three pipe/fault orientations. However, for the $60^{\circ}$ orientation, the pipe buckled in compression irrespective of the geofoam backfill.