68th Canadian Geotechnical Conference and 7th Canadian Permafrost Conference

PHYSICAL MODELLING OF SUBMARINE GASSY SLOPE FAILURES

Session: Physical and Numerical Modelling / Modélisation physique et numérique

Ryan Phillips, C-CORE (Canada)
Shantanu Kar, C-CORE (Canada)
Bipul Hawlader, C-CORE (Canada)

This paper investigates the stability of a submarine gassy slope triggered by tidal variations. Under tidal variations on an unsaturated slope, failure may occur under specific combinations of degree of saturation and soil permeability, and decreasing tidal period. A novel physical model test in a geotechnical centrifuge was undertaken of a submarine slope containing gassy sediments. The model preparation techniques, measurement systems and preliminary results are presented. The response observed in the model test is discussed and further developments proposed. Existing numerical simulations may provide a basis for verification and validation of future physical model test results.