Application of Two-Dimensional Dynamic Infinite Elements: Simulation of Wave Scattering Effects under Different Canyon Topographical and Geological Conditions

Previous studies related to the surface motion of wave propagation demonstrated that the topographical and geological features of a canyon have a significant influence on the motions of the ground (Bouchon 1973; Rogers et al. 1974; Datta and El-Akily 1978; Bard 1982; Shah et al. 1982, 1983; Dravinski 1983; Ohtsuki and Harumi 1984; Zahradnik and Urban 1984; Sanchez-Sesma et al. 1985; Wong et al. 1985; Geli et al. 1988; Zhao and Valliappan 1993a, b). This fact may have an important impact on the dynamic response of such large-scale structures as dams and bridges, because free-field motions have obviously different amplitudes and phases along an abutment on which a structure is founded. One of the key questions associated with the selection of a dam or bridge site is to investigate which kind of canyon is more beneficial to the cost and safety of a structure, from a seismic resistance point of view.