Application of weighted average velocity (WAVe) method to determine Vs,30

The weighted average velocity (WAVe) method was recently proposed as an alternative inversion algorithm for obtaining shear-wave velocity (Vs) profiles from Rayleigh wave dispersion curves. In this paper, the WAVe method is discussed in relation to its accuracy in estimating the average shear-wave velocity to 30 m (Vs,30) and to other depths (Vs,z). Values for Vs,30 are used in building codes to determine ground-type classes for seismic design. Five case studies, representing typical shear-wave velocity (Vs) profiles, are presented. The Vs profiles obtained using the WAVe method and those obtained using more rigorous inversion methods were quantitatively compared based on Vs,30 as well as Vs, z. The comparison showed that the WAVe method yielded similar Vs profiles and Vs,30 leading to same ground type for seismic design.