Ranking and prioritization of embankments is based on the input parameters including geometry, material, seismic event, upper level of bedrock layer, level of natural ground line and soil type. Seismic vulnerability ranking and prioritization is conducted using the Kentucky Embankment Stability Ranking (KESR) model in which three categories are incorporated to specify the failure risk of each embankment [4]. Application of the proposed methodology results in obtaining the three aforementioned ranking parameters known as the (C/D)min. ratio, embankment displacement, and liquefaction potential. The KESR model assumes one of the following three possibilities (A, B, or C) of embankment behavior during a seismic event, as described in Table 2: (A) loss of embankment, (B) significant movement, and (C) no significant movement. High seismic risk is assigned to category A. Significant seismic risk without loss of the embankment is assigned to category B, while low seismic risk is assigned to category C. The embankment displacement and the liquefaction potential are the ranking parameters for category A and category B. Conversely, the ranking of embankments within category C is solely based on the anticipated (C/D)min. ratio. For an embankment to be assigned category A, either the displacement shall exceed 10 centimeters (4 inches) or a high liquefaction potential is probable during the specified seismic event.
An embankment in category B meets one of the following two criteria: (1) moderate liquefaction potential; or (2) an anticipated (C/D)min. ratio less than 1.0, along with a displacement of less than 10 centimeters (4 inches). An embankment in category C shall have (C/D)min. ratio greater than or equal to 1.0.
