A hybrid geotechnical and geological data-based framework for multiscale regional liquefaction hazard mapping

Regional assessment of liquefaction hazard necessitates not only models for evaluating liquefaction potentials and their spatial extent, but also the means to account for heterogeneous sources of information. In this work, a framework is developed that integrates geotechnical and geological data for the multiscale mapping of regional liquefaction hazard. The geotechnical data, such as the cone penetration test (CPT) record, are used to obtain primary liquefaction potential data through a classical CPT-based liquefaction model. A simplified method is proposed to derive secondary liquefaction potential data from geological information that essentially enforces geological constraints on the generated liquefaction hazard maps. Both primary and secondary liquefaction potential data are integrated into multiscale random field models through a conditional simulation algorithm to generate liquefaction hazard maps over the region of interest. The proposed framework is applied to an earthquake-prone region for the multiscale mapping and probabilistic assessment of liquefaction hazard. The results are validated with existing knowledge and liquefaction observations, and show improved predictions when both geotechnical and geological data are appropriately accounted for in the liquefaction hazard maps.