A state-of-the-art review on seismic SSI studies on building structures

Abstract

This article aims to provide a concise state-of-the-art review of the seismic soil–structure interaction (SSI) studies related to building structures. Irrespective of the type of structure, other associated studies are also presented that are considered as important and integral in SSI studies. Noted researchers working in the field of SSI expressed different types of views with regard to the adoption and beneficial effects of seismic SSI. However, as evidenced from the literature, it was observed that there exist contradictory opinions about its necessity, benefits, as well as its detrimental response. The inconclusiveness of the reports triggers the necessity to critically study the issues and aspects of seismic SSI and examine the various available codal guidelines in detail. The same has been reported in the present article. Certain relevant studies related to the methodology, various computational procedures and the modelling of the soil domain, that are found integral to any seismic SSI technique, has been presented with a view to develop a basic understanding of the subject. Finally, the seismic SSI studies along with guidelines present in various codes of design practice have been reviewed. Moreover, the gap areas that have not received their due attention in the past SSI studies related to buildings has been highlighted. Overall, this article provides a basic insight into the area of seismic SSI and the studies related to building structures supported on shallow and deep foundations. The article focuses to illuminate the areas that have not received due attention in the earlier studies.