Investigation of dynamic response of municipal solid waste landfill with a drainage system and a composite liner using shaking table tests

This study investigated the dynamic response of the landfill with a drainage system and composite liner under various earthquake magnitudes using large-scale shaking table tests. The tests indicated that the peak ground acceleration (PGA) amplification factor increased with the increase of height in the vertical direction. There was a significant variation in the unit amplification capability of different layers of the landfill, with the drainage system exhibiting the strongest unit amplification capability. Under 0.3g and 0.4g, the spectral response began to display a multi-peak condition. The degree of damage to the municipal solid waste (MSW) increased nonlinearly with the load of earthquakes. The pattern of damage at the interface closely resembled the shear stress-strain curve of the interface. At 0.3g, there was a sudden change in the relative displacement between the MSW and the drainage system, with the foot of the slope reaching its maximum displacement. At 0.5g, the positive and negative displacements at the middle and foot of the slope reached their maximum values. Inconsistent movements were observed at different interfaces of the landfill. Rough geomembrane performs better in resisting shear strain under earthquake by numerical analysis. This research has significant implications for modern sanitary landfills’ dynamic stability and long-term sustainability.