SOIL-STRUCTURE INTERACTION EFFECTS ON FOOTINGS

Abstract

In the present context the majority of structures being constructed on the Indian sub-continent comprise of low-rise structures. While research continues with regard to high-rise systems, the former have been comparatively confined, being subjected to empirical and semiempirical methods for the determination of the design forces and sub-sequently to conventional designs. The merits of an individual study depending upon prevailing site conditions have usually been beyond the scope of stipulated requirements of analysis and design of low rise systems, despite their large numbers and their continuing popularity because of economic conditions in the sub-continent. Conventional design practice for low rise structures, as -per Indian Standard Code of Practice for seismic analysis of reinforced concrete buildings, considers the foundation soil as rigid. However, \ the nature of the sub-soil is of great significance for the determination of the seismic response of structures. Thy inclusion of the foundation soil in seismic analysis of structures i.e. consideration of 'soil-structure interaction' provides a modified response which is more realistic in comparison to the fixed base response. The consideration of soil-structure interaction may influence the response of the structure in two different ways:.