SH-wave refraction/reflection and site characterization

Zhenming Wang, Ron L. Street, Edward W. Woolery, Ian P. Madin

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

Abstract

Traditionally, nonintrusive techniques used to characterize soils have been based on P-wave refraction/reflection methods. However, near-surface unconsolidated soils are oftentimes water-saturated, and when groundwater is present at a site, the velocity of theP-waves is rnore related to the compressibility of the pore, water than to the matrix of the unconsolidated soils. Conversely, SH-waves are directly relatable to the soil matrix. This makes SH-wave refraction/reflection methods effective in site characterizations where groundwater is present. SH-wave methods have been used extensively in site characterization and subsurface imaging for earthquake hazard assessments in the central United States and western Oregon. Comparison of SH-wave investigations with geotechnical investigations shows that SH-wave refraction/reflection techniques are viable and cost-effective for engineering site characterization.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationProceedings of Sessions of Geo-Denver 2000 - Use of Geophysical Methods in Construction, GSP 108
Pages126-140
Number of pages15
DOIs
StatePublished - 2000
EventSessions of Geo-Denver 2000 - Use of Geophysical Methods in Construction, GSP 108 - Denver, CO, United States
Duration: Aug 5 2000Aug 8 2000

Publication series

NameProceedings of Sessions of Geo-Denver 2000 - Use of Geophysical Methods in Construction, GSP 108
Volume296

Conference

ConferenceSessions of Geo-Denver 2000 - Use of Geophysical Methods in Construction, GSP 108
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityDenver, CO
Period8/5/008/8/00

Keywords

  • Reflection
  • Refraction
  • Shear waves
  • Site investigation

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Geophysics
  • Building and Construction

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