Analysis of Local Site Effects on Seismic Response of Frame Structures Supported by Foundations at Different Elevations

Abstract

Frame structures supported by foundations with different elevations (such as a structure on the slope) undergo different ground motions because of the local site effect. Seismic response of the structure under non-uniform excitation of ground motion is different from that under uniform excitation on upper embedding end or lower embedding end. Sites with the same height difference and different soil conditions were set up in this paper to subject them to ground motions related to different positions and the seismic response of structures built on the sites under uniform and non-uniform strong seismic excitation were compared. The results show that the predominant period and amplitude of ground motions on upper embedding end and lower embedding end are different and affected by soil conditions. The extent and law of amplification of shear force, displacement and storey drift of structures under non-uniform excitation differ from those under uniform excitation when soil changes from soft to medium-hard soil. In addition, the position and degree of plastic hinges change under non-uniform excitation compared to uniform excitation. The uniform excitation using the ground motion on the upper embedding end is not always safe for the frame structure supported by foundations at different elevations.