Soil effect on the Seismic Response of Reinforced Concrete Multi Story structures

In terms of the importance of establishing mega multi-story constructions that considers the impact of seismic action, this research was initiated with the objective of verifying the soil ability to stabilize such structures, while considering the impact of changing the natural frequency of the structure itself, in view of soil type. After setting the research objectives, a methodology was set to encompass 5 investigations. Throughout the Theoretical Investigation, literature in the field of multi-story structure response to seismic action and the numerical models that simulates such structures. During the Numerical Investigation, the available numerical models were scrutinized, from which PLAXIS 2D was selected to be implemented. Moreover, a numerical analysis technique was elaborated. Furthermore, the representation of the various elements was expounded for both the soil and the structure. All through the Analytical Investigation, PLAXIS 2D investigated the structure response to the cases of soil presence and soil absence. During modeling the soil absence, several soil variables were considered (i.e. soil elasticity and soil depth) and many structure variables were taken into account (i.e. height to width ratio and the structure foundation). During the Inferential Investigation, conclusions were deduced, where the research results highlighted the importance of considering the foundation rigidity. Moreover, the research suggested recommendations for future research, where it was advised to investigate the soil data experimentally. Moreover, the research suggested some recommendations for the Engineering Practice, where it was advised to implement three-dimensional Finite Element Models “FE” to simulate structures with surrounding soil.