Shallow three-dimensional shear wave velocity model for the Mexico City Basin

Abstract

In this study, a simplified shallow three-dimensional shear wave velocity (Vs) model is presented for the Mexico City Basin. To this end, previous studies were carefully reviewed to assemble a database of Vs and site period measurements for the region. The new site period measurements obtained at the western edge of the Basin were compared to the existing 2004 Complementary Technical Standards of Mexico site period nominal map, the Lermo et al. site period map, and Design Seismic Actions System (SASID) site period predictions. Each site period prediction method was shown to have differences with respect to the new measurements along the western edge of the Basin. However, there was no bias for the prediction methods with the Lermo et al. and SASID predictions, demonstrating less error between the measured values than the NTC predictions. To develop the three-dimensional Vs model, the shallow (top 60 m) subsurface was divided into five generalized soil layers. The site period was used as the only input for the three-dimensional Vs model to simplify and maximize the model’s applicability. The performance of the model was assessed by comparing the measured and predicted Vs profiles. Overall, the three-dimensional Vs model developed in this study is a valuable tool that can be used along with geophysical estimates of deeper structure for ground motion modeling and preliminary site response studies along with other benefits to the seismic resiliency of the region.