Investigation on the effects of liquefaction and soil-structure-interaction on seismic response of structures

点击翻译按钮获取中文摘要

The objective of the proposed research program is to investigate how the dynamic interaction between soil and structure affects the seismic response of structures. For the design of essential and high-risk facilities, such as nuclear power plants, natural gas storage tanks, and long-span bridges, the soil-structure-interaction (SSI) during an earthquake event is an important factor that should be considered in the design process. In the proposed research program, high-fidelity numerical simulations will be employed to investigate the effect of SSI on the seismic performance of structures such as bridges or buildings. For the numerical investigation, a finite element analysis application will be deployed on a computer cluster in the applicant's department. Validated numerical models of soil and structural elements will be used to investigate the effects of soil nonlinearity, liquefaction, and SSI on the seismic performance of structures. In addition to the numerical investigation, a hybrid simulation method will be developed in which the numerical model of soil domain and an experimental specimen of a structural component can be concurrently and interactively simulated through network communications. For this technology development, a proof-of-concept experiment will be carried out in which a large soil domain and foundation will be represented in the computer cluster and a structural component, such as a column, bearing, or base isolation component, will be an actual physical specimen. The numerical investigations and the development of hybrid simulation methods will be the basis for the long-term research program on SSI study. At least five highly qualified personnel (HQP) will be trained through the proposed research program. They will not only gain technical skills and generate new knowledge, but also develop professional network through collaboration with research partners in E.U. In the long term, the new findings and HQP trained through the research program will enhance the safety of critical structures and infrastructures of Canada.