Test, simulation and theoretical design of soil-pile-LNG storage tank under seismic actions

A full containment Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) storage tank, a coastal steel-concrete hybrid structure located in soft soil conditions, necessitates a thorough examination of the impact of soil-pile interaction on its dynamic responses. This study systematically investigated the action mechanism of soil-pile coupling on the dynamic behavior of LNG storage tanks. The research results are as follows: firstly, considering pile-soil-tank interaction (SPSI) reduced the tank wall seismic response but increased sloshing wave height compared to a rigid foundation. Secondly, with soil softening, the tank's seismic response increased under SPSI, indicating that the mitigating effect of pile-soil interaction on the seismic response of LNG storage tank diminished with the softening of the ground. Furthermore, considering the insulation layer amplified SPSI's effect on tank base shear and bending moment. These findings could provide practical insights that can aid in the seismic design and reinforcement of storage tanks.