Directing energy dissipation in earthquake-soil-structure systems

Abstract eng:
Location and timing of dissipation of incoming seismic energy during earthquakes determines amount and type of damage a soil-structure system will sustain. For example, if much of incoming energy is dissipated in the structure, significant structural damage can be expected, resulting in possible collapse of structural components or complete structure. Damage to structure (or components) might result in change of dynamic characteristics of the structural system. On the other hand, if much of incoming energy is dissipated in the soil, structure might sustain only minor damage (if any) while soil might densify, resulting in change to its dynamic characteristic as well. The interplay of (evolving) dynamic characteristics of earthquake, soil and structure (ESS) and the timing of such evolution will determine eventual fate of structural system. Of particular interest is the notion that energy dissipation location and timing controls eventual damage and/or failure of soil-structure systems. Observation from recent earthquakes substantiates above energy dissipation hypothesis. Presented here is detailed, high fidelity modeling and simulation of ESS systems that is used to investigate energy dissipation hypothesis. Described in some detail will be modeling of both displacement proportional (elasto-plasticity) and velocity proportional (viscous) energy dissipation mechanisms and their timing. Main focus of presentation is on systematic analysis of how energy dissipation at various spatial locations, using different dissipation mechanisms and at different times contributes to dynamic response of soil-structure system. Moreover, it will be proposed that directing energy dissipation process, through passive and active control of soil, can be used to improve soilstructure system response to seismic excitation. A number of example earthquake-soil-structure system simulations will be presented, illustrating interplay of ESS dynamic characteristics (in space and time) and energy dissipation mechanisms and their influence on beneficial and/or detrimental effects on soil-structure systems.

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