(a) Earthquake response of natural silts; (b) response of buried pipelines to ground movements; and (c) mechanical response of mine waste

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Geotechnical engineering research on three topics that are of global significance, with particular applicability to seismic design, mining, and pipeline engineering is proposed.  The focus is to undertake novel and leading-edge research that would advance the fundamental knowledge while addressing real-life needs.  EARTHQUAKE RESPONSE OF SILTS: There is significant controversy regarding the current approaches to assess the earthquake response of fine-grained soils.  Evidence from recent earthquakes has also emphasized the need for understanding the response of natural silts.  With this background, laboratory research is proposed to study the mechanical response of silts.  The research will directly contribute to advancing the knowledge and improving design methods/guidelines in earthquake geotechnical engineering.RESPONSE OF BURIED PIPELINES TO GROUND MOVEMENT: Polyethylene (PE) pipes are becoming increasingly popular in buried natural gas distribution systems, and the performance of these systems in areas subjected to ground deformations is an important engineering consideration.  Due to lack of fundamental knowledge, in the evaluation of PE piping, the current practice mainly relies on the methods developed for steel pipes, and this approach has significant limitations.  Research is proposed to understand the performance of buried PE pipelines under ground movements using full-scale model testing and numerical modeling.  The findings will provide input to developing guidelines for safe operation of PE gas pipeline systems.MECHANICAL RESPONSE OF MINE WASTE:  Mixing mine waste rock and tailings for disposal is a relatively new concept in mine waste management to prevent problems such as acid rock drainage and liquefaction.  Current understanding of the mechanical response of mine waste mixtures is very limited.  It is proposed to study the mechanical response of this complex material using advanced laboratory element testing.  The work will support the development of new technology and material science required for blended disposal of mine waste.