Evaluation of Liquefaction Potential of New Caledonian Nickel Ores

Although Nickel ores are generally characterized as plastic to very plastic silts they do liquefy under specific conditions. In fact, it was reported that New Caledonian Nickel ores (NCNo) can undergo liquefaction during their maritime transportation under wave motions. The purpose of this research is to develop a new empirical method to evaluate the liquefaction potential of these soils. First, the study consists on interpreting physical and mechanical characterization tests carried on Nickel ore samples originating from different sites of New Caledonia. This analysis permitted to conclude on the heterogeneity of NCNo and enabled the identification of three major types namely, laterites, earthy and grainy saprolites. The classification of these groups was based on the grain size distribution and the Atterberg limits tests. Afterwards, a review of the existing liquefaction potential evaluation methods is elaborated. The application of these methods to the case of NCNo has not allowed concluding on the liquefaction susceptibility of this material. Finally, a new method specific to each NCNo type was introduced based on the physical and mechanical test results.