On the role of topographic amplification in seismic slope instabilities

Surface wave generation due to body wave propagation near ground surface has been discussed in the literature. This phenomenon, typically occurring in topographic changing areas, along with its interaction with body waves (SV), decreases precision of formulas for evaluation of slope displacement. This significant fact caused the researchers not only to investigate the combined surface and SV waves motion pattern, but also to consider its effect on structures built on the slopes. In order to reveal the phenomenon, several finite element numerical studies have been performed by ABAQUS programme. Besides, two physical model slopes simulating the landslide occurrence have been constructed and tested by shaking table device. The results of induced and calculated accelerations obtained by two approaches have been compared and Rayleigh wave generation has been proved. Furthermore, the slope displacements have been calculated by various empirical methods and the results were compared with numerical ones. The results proved that in order to increase the precision of empirical formulas for displacement prediction, surface wave effect should be taken into account. Finally, a concept of “effective depth of surficial amplification” is introduced and its effect on dynamic slope stability is analysed.