Energy Dissipation Efficiency of Geotechnical Seismic Isolation with Gravel-Rubber Mixtures: Insights from FE Non-Linear Numerical Analysis
Davide Forcellini, Gabriele Chiaro, Alessandro Palermo, Laura Banasiak, Hing‐Ho Tsang
Abstract
This paper provides new and useful insights into the performance and efficiency of geotechnical seismic isolation (GSI) systems with gravel-rubber mixtures containing 10%, 25% and 40% volumetric rubber content (VRC). Finite element numerical models were developed in OpenSees and subjected to sinusoidal ground motions with varying input base acceleration and frequency. The best seismic performance was attained for VRC = 40% at a frequency of 8 Hz. Using a newly developed GSI efficiency index, the energy dissipation efficiency of VRC = 40% was found to vary between good to excellent, while that of VRC = 10% and 25% is poor.
Topics & Concepts
OpenSeesDissipationNatural rubberSeismic isolationGeotechnical engineeringBase isolationFinite element methodAccelerationStructural engineeringEarthquake engineeringShakeGeologyMaterials scienceEngineeringPhysicsComposite materialMechanical engineeringFrame (networking)Classical mechanicsThermodynamicsGeotechnical Engineering and Soil StabilizationSeismic Performance and AnalysisGeotechnical Engineering and Underground Structures