Reduction in ground vibrations by using shaped landscapes

• Reduction in traffic-induced ground vibrations by using shaped landscapes was studied.
• Numerical investigation by means of the finite element method.
• Reduction in the level of vibration up to approximately 35%.
• Applying valleys only in the shaped landscape amplifies the level of vibration.
• The most effective configuration was the one consisting of alternating hills and valleys.

Reduction in traffic-induced ground vibrations by the use of shaped landscapes is investigated here by shaping the landscape surrounding a high-tech facility, using the landscape thus produced as a wave obstacle. The effects of the geometric parameters of a shaped landscape were examined in parametric studies. An architectural landscape design was also investigated in terms of its effectiveness in reducing traffic-induced ground vibrations. Finite element models, analysed in the frequency domain, were employed. The models involve a layer of soil and the underlying bedrock. It was found that anywhere from an appreciable reduction to an appreciable amplification of the vibrations produced can occur, depending upon the geometric parameters of the shaped landscape involved. The most effective shape was found for a topography that acted as a waveguide that reduced the level of vibration by approximately 35%.