Local Site Effects Evaluation Using Geophysical Methods

Abstract

The waves that occur in an earthquake affect the behavior of the soil and the building due to the structural condition of the bedrock and the physical properties of the soil near the surface. To predict this interaction, the deep underground structure models of the areas considered as settlements should be determined and how the earthquake waves will be directed (macro-zoning) depending on this should be revealed. Since the near surface features of the ground can increase the effect of earthquake waves, it is necessary to determine the near surface properties and create their maps (micro-zoning). Earthquake waves are formed in thick sediments compared to the rock environment and cause great damage to both the ground and the buildings. In order to be protected from these damages, it is necessary to determine focusing and scattering conditions arising from the deep underground base topography. Therefore, parameters such as maximum horizontal ground acceleration, soil liquefaction, soil dominant vibration period, soil amplification, and near-surface soil properties should be determined.