Trench-backfill particle size effects on the performance of buried pipelines subject to ground movement

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A very large proportion of the global energy pipelines are buried below ground, and they extend over large distances across terrain that has highly variable topography and geotechnical conditions. Geotechnical hazards such as ground subsidence, landslides, or earthquake-induced lateral spreading can be a major cause of damage to pipelines. Any significant disruption to the performance of these systems often translates into undesirable impacts on the society and environment, as well as the growth and value creation of the utility companies. Reduction of soil forces on pipelines during ground movements is one of the keys to securing pipeline integrity. Limited initial research work at the Advanced Soil Pipe Interaction Research (ASPIReTM) facility at the University of British Columbia (UBC) suggests that filling of pipeline trenches with relatively large size (e.g., gravel size) soil particles provides a potentially novel way of improving forces from soil movements on buried pipelines. Due to the direct/significant benefits arising from the reduced risk of pipeline damage and enhanced safety, this topic is of great interest to the pipeline sector. The current understanding of this soil force reduction approach for pipelines is very limited. As such, there is a strong need to undertake further research to advance knowledge on this front. Working with an industry collaborator, a comprehensive research program on this subject is proposed using the state-of-the-art facilities at the University of BC. The objective is to investigate the value of selecting trench backfills that would result in favorable soil forces on buried pipes subjected to ground movements. Highly qualified personnel will be trained during this work, thus adding to the pipeline geotechnical engineering expertise in Canada. The research findings will be of direct high-value applicability to the Company for the enhancement of pipeline integrity and safety. The project will also build a strong new working relationship with the applicant and an industry collaborator. The investigation on this scientifically interesting challenge would lead to publications and potential engineering design guidelines, in turn, contributing to the pipeline sector at large.