Numerical assessment of distortion and damage induced on a highway embankment due to reverse fault rupture propagation

Abstract In the present work, the impact of reverse fault rupture propagation through a highway embankment founded on a single-layered soil is investigated. The investigation takes place by means of quasi-static parametric numerical analyses using a 2D finite difference software (FLAC). The effect of the embankment's existence on fault rupture pattern, as well as, the influence of rupture spread at the embankment's integrity, are thoroughly examined. Moreover, two criteria based on the effect of rupture propagation on embankment's initial compaction degree and volume modification are suggested for mapping and quantification of embankment's damage due to rupture diffusion. Based on those results, it becomes evident that the embankment's presence affects the distortion of soil surface. Significant distortion on embankment's external surface and considerable reduction of its initial compaction degree are detected.