Fundamental changes in seismic geotechnical engineering thanks to novel approaches

Soil conditions play a key role in damage to new or existing structures during earthquakes. An EU initiative has introduced new models and approaches to tackle practical engineering problems related to soil-foundation-structure interaction (SFSI).

Traditional seismic design for SFSI is still based on static geotechnical and structural engineering's cautious and traditional approach. This relates to the avoidance of exceeding several thresholds that lead to the creation of failure mechanisms in the supporting soil or at the footing-soil interface. There is growing evidence suggesting that soil-foundation inelastic and non-linear response during an earthquake is unavoidable and even required sometimes.

Further details: Fundamental changes in seismic geotechnical engineering thanks to novel approaches