Topographical, site and structure-soil-structure interaction effects. A case of study

Abstract

In this work, we investigate the influence of slope topography, site effects and dynamic interaction between shear-wall buildings located closely on a sandy coastal scarp. To this end, a numerical model is developed based on real site and buildings properties calibrated and taken as case of study. Wave propagation analyses are conducted to derive topographical amplification factors and to assess dynamic buildings responses for different scenarios. It was found that the surface profile of the site has a large effect on the dynamic response of low-rise stiff buildings. Moreover, it is shown that structure-soil-structure scenario has negligible effect from a practical point of view in comparison to soilstructure interaction. The results suggest that care should be taken in the design of low-rise stiff buildings located near a slope crest.