Sandia National Laboratories

The objective was to study, by simulating realistic conditions in a centrifuge, earthquake ground motions and the effects on the soil-structure interaction phenomenon for offshore structures. Such studies will lead to better methods for: (1) developing site-specific seismic design motions, (2) determining liquefaction potential and permanent ground movement, and (3) predicting pile behavior for different earthquake ground motions.

This is a Joint Industry Project (JIP) sponsored jointly by MMS, Conoco, Chevron, ABS, DOE of the United Kingdom, and Det Norske Veritas (DNV). The objective of the research program was to improve the understanding of pile-soil interaction during cyclic tension loading. The project has two parts: a laboratory model pile test program for investigation of model pile segments subjected to realistic loading conditions and a field test program composed of both small and large scale instrumented pile tests.

A feasibility study to determine the efficacy of applying risk analysis methodology to understand the 'best available and safest technologies--where economically feasible' requirement (Section 21B) of the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act Amendments of 1978.