Seismic site effect analysis for the city of Tehran using equivalent linear ground response analysis

Abstract

Equivalent linear ground response analysis is conducted to evaluate seismic site effects in Tehran, Iran. Recorded bedrock motions in acceleration stations within Tehran are scaled based on the peak bedrock acceleration distribution map for a 475-year return period. The seismic responses of sites categorised as class C, based on Building Seismic Safety Council classification system, are obtained using the equivalent linear ground response analysis and available geotechnical and geophysical data. The results of site response analysis are presented in terms of site response spectra and amplification factors, computed in period ranges of 0.1–0.5 s and 0.1–2.5 s. The estimated site response spectra are compared with the suggested spectra in the Iranian Code (Standard No. 2800) and International Building Code (IBC 2015). While the comparison reveals an acceptable agreement between the estimated response spectra and IBC 2015, a significant discrepancy is observed with respect to the Iranian Code.