A Simplified Approach for Site-Specific Design Spectrum

Abstract

The design acceleration spectrum requires site investigations and site-response analyses in accordance with the local seismic hazard. The variability in earthquake source and path effects may be considered using a large number of acceleration records compatible with the earthquake hazard. An important step is the selection and scaling of input acceleration records. Likewise, a large number of soil profiles need to be considered to account for the variability of site conditions. One option is to use Monte Carlo simulations with respect to layer thickness and shear wave velocity profiles to account for the variability of the site factors. The local seismic hazard analysis yields a uniform hazard acceleration spectrum on the bedrock outcrop. Site-specific response analyses also need to produce a uniform hazard acceleration spectrum on the ground surface. A simplified approach is proposed to define acceleration design spectrum on the ground surface that may be considered a uniform hazard spectrum.