Description
Topographic amplification factor according to Eurocode: morphological effects of site on local seismic response.
Surface morphology plays a crucial role in the seismic amplification of a site, as evidenced by significant structural damage observed in relation to morphological features such as ridges, slopes, or canyons. From an engineering perspective, topographic amplification of seismic motion is relevant for assessing the seismic risk of numerous historical centers built on elevations, earthen structures (ridges, embankments, and dams), important infrastructures such as bridges and dams, as well as natural and artificial slopes. Three configurations of interest can be distinguished: crest, slope, and canyon. The typical situation of a small crest width can be attributed to the case of an isolated elevation, while for larger widths, it tends towards the limiting case of a slope. This article synthesizes the main findings of studies on topographic amplification in the context of isolated elevations and slopes.
