Nonlinear Soil–Foundation–Structure and Structure–Soil–Structure Interaction: Centrifuge Test Observations

Abstract

AbstractUtilizing a pair of building–foundation models placed in strategic configurations, two centrifuge tests were designed to evaluate nonlinear soil–foundation–structure interaction (SFSI) and structure–soil–structure interaction (SSSI) effects. The models were designed to represent a low-rise inelastic frame building founded on individual spread footings and a midrise elastic shear-wall building founded on a mat foundation designed to rock during seismic excitation. Four experimental cases are considered: (1) the baseline response of the low-rise frame structure; (2) the response of two structures placed adjacent to each other along the direction of earthquake shaking; (3) the response of two structures placed adjacent to each other perpendicular to the direction of earthquake shaking; and (4) the response of the frame structure when two wall structures are placed adjacent to it, such that both effects are promoted. Using spectral-analysis methods, it is demonstrated that the baseline frame structure...