Recent Developments in the Research and Practice of Earthquake Engineering in Australia

Abstract

This paper presents multidisciplinary facets of earthquake engineering research and developments in Australia over the past decade. Past and current research into seismic activity modelling and the associated challenges is first described. The Component Attenuation model (CAM) that provides estimates for the seismic displacement demand in regions lacking strong motion data is then introduced along with other models developed by conventional methods. Research into the seismic performances of typical Australian construction which incorporates the use of unreinforced masonry, steel and concrete has been summarized together with a brief report on current activities with risk modelling and the earthquake loading standard. A new two-tier displacement based approach for assessing the seismic performance of structures is presented along with future trends in earthquake engineering.

Empirical Performance Chart for Ground Support in Seismic Conditions at Mt Charlotte

“…For example, for ground motion generated by a seismic event propagating through rock with S-wave velocity around 3600 m/s and a dominant frequency of the dynamic wave of 200 Hz, the wavelength would be 18 m (plus harmonics), which is in the order of the dimensions of mine development. These issues are critical to the design of surface buildings and structures so that they are not prone to earthquake damage (Wilson and Lam, 2006). This aspect of the seismic damage of underground openings requires urgent detailed investigation.…”