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Abstract

Extensive subsurface exploration of Yuen-Lin liquefaction area was conducted by National Science Council after Chi-Chi earthquakes. Data obtained from the subsurface exploration in Yuen-Lin area had been studied and three widely used liquefaction evaluation methods, i.e. Seed method, T-Y method and JRA method, were employed for liquefaction evaluation. The depth of the liquefied soil layer was also identified by comparison of grain size distribution curve of explored sample and field data. Iwasaki's liquefaction potential index was further used to analyze liquefaction induced risk of damage. Finally, Multiple Additive Decision Making method (MADM) was applied to determine the suitability of the three methods for liquefaction evaluation in Yuen-Lin area. The results showed that the T-Y method is the most suitable one, followed by Seed method. The JRA method which is currently used in Taiwan's Building Code is the worst one. After 1995 Kobe earthquake, JRA method had been modified extremely, therefore, the liquefaction evaluation in Taiwan's Building Code that was developed mostly based on JRA method needs to be adjusted as well.

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