Measurements and numerical simulations of surface waves using a plane model

Abstract

A falling-weight impactor with a controlled force energy spectrum was used to generate surface waves in soft clay soil. Field measurements of both load and response in terms of vertical acceleration were made. The acceleration-type frequency response function (FRF) between the point of source and the point of response was established. The Rayleigh wave velocity of the soil was estimated from the measured acceleration time histories and from the established FRFs. Simulations of the field measurements were conducted and the dynamic response of the soil was studied in terms of the vertical acceleration and displacement at the soil surface. Two-dimensional numerical results were scaled to three dimensions. The effect of incorporating contributions from shear waves and compression waves at the surface was demonstrated. FRFs based on simulated data were established. The scaled numerical results and measured values are in good agreement.