A numerical analysis of reverse fault rupture-suction caisson interaction

This paper presents the results of numerical simulations, which allow for the description of the interaction mechanism of a tripod suction caisson foundation with reverse fault rupture. The numerical and soil models are verified against well-documented Finite Element (FE) analysis and centrifuge experiments in terms of free field vertical displacement at the soil surface. Then, a series of parametric studies with varying foundation positions with respect to the free field fault rupture outcrop location was carried out. The obtained results revealed that the presence of the structure bifurcates the fault rupture and forces it to outcrop outside of the margins of the foundation. Numerical results indicate that the tripod foundation system may undergo significant horizontal displacements and structural rotations, depending on the unit caisson position with respect to the fault rupture trajectory.