Dynamic Analyses for Performance-Based Seismic Design of Geotechnical Structures with Examples in Deep Foundations

Abstract

Performance-Based Seismic design (PBSD) of the geotechnical engineering structures can be evaluated by a number of methods taking into account the uncertainties of the designed influence factors. Despite the fact that the seismic force is known to be a significant factor, the static and/or pseudo static analyses seem to be commonly adopted in design practice. This paper briefly discusses alternate approaches with the emphasis on dynamic analysis. Examples are given by the assessments of two deep foundations located in Taiwan. It can be found that dynamic analysis is rather important to the seismic design problems since it can monitor the details of timedependent structural responses incorporating both peak ground acceleration and duration of the earthquake. Other than the 3D finite element analysis, the simplified solution from 1D wave equation analysis can be very effective and convenient for PBSD analysis on deep foundation.