Effect of pulse-like ground motions on the seismic performance of slope reinforced by pile-anchor structure: centrifuge model tests and numerical simulations

A series of dynamic centrifuge model tests and finite element simulations are conducted to investigate the seismic behavior of slopes reinforced by pile-anchor structures under pulse-like earthquake motions for the first time. The amplification effect and structural behavior, including pile bending moment, pile top displacement, and anchor tension, are considered in the analysis. The findings indicate that pulse-like ground motions give rise to pronounced amplification effect at the pile head, with low-frequency components playing a critical role in the seismic behavior of the structure. This amplification effect is more pronounced under pulse-like motions than in non-pulse cases. Moreover, the pulsatory characteristics of ground motion, particularly the low-frequency components, exert a more significant influence on anti-slide structures than peak ground acceleration (PGA), leading to higher cumulative energy levels in pulse-like ground motions. Furthermore, the dynamic finite element analysis effectively captures the key phenomena observed in the centrifuge tests, offering valuable insights for optimizing the seismic design of pile-anchor systems.