Liquefaction damage and related remediation in Wufeng after the Chi-Chi Earthquake

The strong motion and long duration of the Chi-Chi Earthquake that occurred in the latter part of 1999 in Taiwan caused severe soil liquefaction damage in Wufeng, an area beside the western foothills of the island. This study investigates areas of soil liquefaction and consequent damage to public and/or private residential houses in Wufeng after the Chi-Chi Earthquake. Remediation methods for foundations of damaged buildings in Wufeng are synthesized, compared, and analyzed. Four major remedial methods are specified: (1) reconstructing ground slabs with reinforced concrete; (2) increasing the size and depth of the footings; (3) constructing a mat foundation after the tilted building has been lifted and leveled, by removing soils under the structure, and (4) lifting and leveling the building with compaction grouting. Three remedial cases are introduced and studied in detail. Recommendations for reconstructing buildings in areas susceptible to liquefaction are also suggested.