Quantifying Uncertainty in Earthquake Site Response Models Using the KiK-net Database.
Kaklamanos, James.
2012
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Abstract: The purpose of this dissertation is to improve our understanding of
uncertainty in earthquake site response models, using data from the Kiban-Kyoshin network
(KiK-net) of vertical seismometer arrays in Japan. Site response models, which are used to
estimate the ground motion at the surface of a site (as a function of the soil profile and
the input ground motion), are associated with ... read morelarge uncertainties and have often been found
to poorly replicate observed ground motions. Vertical seismometer arrays, such as those in
the KiK-net database, represent a unique interaction between observed and predicted ground
motions. Recent earthquakes in Japan, including the magnitude 9.0 Tohoku earthquake of 11
March 2011, have substantially increased the number of strong-motion records that can be
used to compare alternative site response models at large strains, and can subsequently
provide insight into the accuracy and precision of site response models. By taking
advantage of data from a large number of events and sites in the KiK-net database, I am
able to draw broader, more statistically significant conclusions about site response than
are otherwise possible. This dissertation has three primary objectives. First, using linear
and equivalent-linear site response analyses for 3720 ground motions at 100 KiK-net sites,
I identify critical parameters that most greatly contribute to site response uncertainty,
and I quantify the ranges over which these site response models provide accurate
predictions. Second, I develop and implement a straightforward methodology for modeling
nonlinear site response within a general finite element framework, using the concept of
overlay elements. Third, at a subset of six KiK-net sites that are most applicable for
one-dimensional site response analyses, I further investigate site response uncertainty by
performing a detailed set of linear, equivalent-linear, and nonlinear site response
analyses, including the overlay finite element model. The contribution of this dissertation
is a greater understanding of the predictive capabilities and limitations of existing site
response models, offering a step toward improving the modeling of earthquake site response
in engineering practice.
Thesis (Ph.D.)--Tufts University, 2012.
Submitted to the Dept. of Civil Engineering.
Advisor: Laurie Baise.
Committee: Laurie Baise, Eric Thompson, Luis Dorfmann, Richard Vogel, David Garman, and David Boore.
Keywords: Civil engineering, and Geological engineering.read less - ID:
- 5t34sw73j
- Component ID:
- tufts:21113
- To Cite:
- DCA Citation Guide EndNote
