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INSTRUCTORS:
Amin Rahmani, Ph.D., G.E., M.ASCE
Marc I. Percher, P.E.
Dolunay Oniz, EIT, A.M.ASCE
Purpose and Background
These presentations were recorded at the ASCE Ports Conference 2025
Geotechnical Reconnaissance Observations for Marine Structures After 2023 Türkiye Earthquakes (20 minutes)
This presentation focuses on geotechnical performance at port facilities in the Gulf of Iskenderun following the February 2023 earthquakes in Türkiye. Drawing on site visits to 14 marine terminals, the session examines tectonic context, ground motions, and soil behavior, including widespread liquefaction, lateral spreading, and up to 3 meters of ground settlement. Comparisons between measured ground motions and Turkish seismic code provisions are explored to contextualize site-level damage. Key insights are shared on how foundation type and site class influenced infrastructure performance during extreme shaking.
Marine Structures Field Reconnaissance Observations in Türkiye Impacted by February 2023 Earthquakes (20 minutes)
This session presents structural observations of waterfront infrastructure affected by the 2023 Türkiye earthquakes, including fisheries, ferry terminals, and port piers. Attendees will learn how gravity block walls, slab-on-fill systems, and pile-supported structures responded to liquefaction, lateral movement, and differential settlement. The presentation reviews damage patterns, structural vulnerabilities, and performance variations based on foundation type and reclamation history. Practical examples illustrate the value of seismic detailing, joint resilience, and post-event accessibility in marine environments.
Emergency Response & Recovery at Ports: Observations Following February 2023 Earthquakes in Türkiye (20 minutes)
This presentation explores the operational and community impacts of the 2023 earthquakes on port facilities in southeastern Türkiye. It highlights how liquefaction-induced damage to access roads, utilities, and yard infrastructure disrupted emergency logistics, and how ports implemented rapid repairs using gravel fills, precast blocks, and slope regrading. The session also discusses community support efforts, including temporary housing, donated construction equipment, and restoring fisheries to aid recovery. Lessons learned emphasize the importance of preparedness, continuity planning, and supporting both infrastructure and people in post-disaster response.
Benefits and Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, you will be able to:
- Explain how performance-based design principles can be applied to determine mooring loads for various marine structure types.
- Analyze how site class, ground motion characteristics, and foundation type influenced the performance of waterfront structures. Explain the structural responses of gravity walls, unreinforced slabs, and pile-supported wharves subjected to strong ground shaking and liquefaction.
- Describe the emergency response strategies used by port operators to restore functionality and support community recovery after earthquake-related damage.
- Explain the importance of operational planning, onsite equipment, and employee support in maintaining port resilience during disaster recovery.
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?
- Port engineers
- Port authority staff
- Project managers
- General contractors
- Early career professionals
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 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]