Abstract

• As Yangon has undergone rapid development and expansion, it is needed to construct various new structures. Most of new constructions are on the alluvial deposit. Alluvial deposits are saturated loose sediments and thus, liquefaction is very liable to occur in Yangon area. For that reason, the estimation of ground settlement by earthquake induced liquefaction is needed to carry out. Liquefaction induced ground settlement is estimated at 120 representative sites in downtown based on the Standard Penetration Test and the laboratory results by semi-empirical method. The aim of this research is to provide potential ground settlement information at different locations of site at various depths for earthquakes magnitudes Mw 7.0 with peak ground acceleration of 0.2 g. It also helps in urban planning, prevention of earthquake hazard and determining the suitable foundation types and designs. The study area includes Latha, Pebedan, Kyauktada, and Botahtaung Townships. According to this research, the liquefaction induced ground settlement in the study area is ranging from 6 cm to 56 cm. The estimated ground settlement reveals that light damage may occur in the Ward (2) of Botahtaung Township, General Administrative Department in Kyauktada Township and Ward No. (8) of Botahtaung Township since they have settlement of 6 cm to 10 cm. So, minor cracks may occur when an earthquake of Mw 7.0 strikes. Most of the downtown area can occur medium settlement of 10 cm to 30 cm. Extensive damage may be along the Strand Road, lower part of Thein Phyu Road and Bo Aung Kyaw Roads where it may be the settlement of 30 cm to 56 cm. Therefore, adequate geotechnical site investigation should be done before construction and suitable earthquake resistant design and ground improvements should be applied for all constructions in the areas with high damage potential.