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INSTRUCTORS:
Dr. Daniel Pradel, PE, GE, DGE
Vona Ojaruega, El, PMP
Chukwuebuka C. Nweke, Ph.D. / Sajan K.C.
Mihoka Fukurai, MPH, PhD
Purpose and Background
These presentations were recorded at the Geo-Extreme 2025 conference.
Performance of Foundations in the Kanto Plain North of Tokyo During The Tohoku Earthquake (17 minutes)
This presentation examines the performance of building foundations in the Kanto Plain north of Tokyo during the 2011 Tohoku Earthquake. Emphasis is placed on observed foundation settlements, tilting, and structural damage associated with soft soil deposits and seismic amplification. Case histories are used to illustrate how soil conditions, foundation type, and groundwater levels influenced seismic response. The presentation discusses both successful and problematic foundation systems, highlighting lessons learned from real-world performance. Comparisons are made between predicted and observed behavior to assess the adequacy of design assumptions. The findings provide valuable insight into improving foundation design and seismic evaluation in urban alluvial plains.
Geotextile Encased Columns (GECs) for Soft Soil Foundations; A case Study of GECs Below a Reservoir (14 minutes)
This presentation presents a case study on the use of geotextile encased columns (GECs) to improve foundation performance in soft soil conditions beneath a reservoir. The design rationale, construction process, and material selection for GECs are discussed in detail. Monitoring data are used to evaluate settlement reduction, load transfer mechanisms, and long-term performance. The presentation highlights how confinement provided by geotextiles enhances column stiffness and stability under both static and hydraulic loading. Lessons learned from construction challenges and field observations are shared. The case study demonstrates the effectiveness of GECs as a ground improvement solution for challenging soft soil environments.
Validating Liquefaction Case Histories Using Earthquake Simulations: 1933 Long Beach Earthquake (14 minutes)
This presentation focuses on validating historical liquefaction case histories from the 1933 Long Beach Earthquake using modern earthquake simulation techniques. Numerical ground response and liquefaction models are applied to recreate observed field behavior. The study compares simulated pore pressure generation, ground deformation, and damage patterns with documented observations. Sensitivity analyses are performed to assess the influence of soil properties and seismic input parameters. The results highlight strengths and limitations of current liquefaction evaluation methods. The presentation demonstrates how historical earthquakes can be leveraged to improve confidence in modern predictive tools.
Lessons Learned from the 2011 Tohoku Earthquake: Challenges and Innovations in Disability-Inclusive Infrastructure and Preparedness (14 minutes)
This presentation explores the impact of the 2011 Tohoku Earthquake on people with disabilities and evaluates the effectiveness of infrastructure and emergency preparedness measures. It highlights challenges faced during evacuation, sheltering, and post-disaster recovery. Case examples illustrate how infrastructure design, communication systems, and emergency planning affected accessibility and safety. The presentation discusses innovations and policy changes introduced in Japan following the disaster to improve disability-inclusive resilience. Emphasis is placed on integrating universal design principles into disaster risk reduction strategies. Lessons learned provide guidance for engineers and planners aiming to create more inclusive and resilient communities.
Benefits and Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of these sessions, you will be able to:
- Describe the observed foundation performance and key failure mechanisms in the Kanto Plain during the 2011 Tohoku Earthquake.
- Explain how geotextile encased columns improve foundation performance in soft soil conditions based on field case history.
- Discuss how earthquake simulations can be used to validate and refine liquefaction evaluation methods using historical case studies.
- Identify key challenges and engineering considerations for developing disability-inclusive infrastructure and emergency preparedness in seismic regions.
Assessment of Learning Outcomes
Students' achievement of the learning outcomes will be assessed via a short post-test assessment (true-false, multiple choice, and/or fill in the blank questions).
Who Should Attend?
- Geotechnical Engineers
- Structural Engineers
- Civil Infrastructure Designers
- Researchers and Academics
- Risk and Resilience Analysts
- Construction and Project Managers
How to Earn your CEUs/PDHs and Receive Your Certificate of Completion
To receive your certificate of completion, you will need to complete a short post-test online and receive a passing score of 70% or higher within 1 year of purchasing the course.
How do I convert CEUs to PDHs?
1.0 CEU = 10 PDHs [Example: 0.1 CEU = 1 PDH]