224-0947 – Earthquake engineering (SI)

The subject focuses on the evaluation of the seismic load of structures. The graduate will be acquainted with the basics of the origin and propagation of seismic waves, the basics of earthquake physics and the distribution of earthquake foci in the Czech Republic and the world. The Eurocode 8, which is based on the recommendation for properties of the object, is used to evaluate the seismic loading of objects by earthquakes. The aim of the subject is to propose rules to minimize damage to objects due to seismic load. To take into account the comprehensive assessment of this process, three main parameters have to be taken into account: the source of vibration, the geological environment, in which spreads seismic waves and surface local geology at the assessed point (geological and/or technical problems). Main topics of the lectures: Seismic wave origin and propagation, seismic wave characteristics in the geological environment, earthquake, induced seismicity, technical seismicity, equipment, vibration evaluation using Eurocode 8, evaluation of blasts caused by blasting of explosives. The graduate will be acquainted with the basics of earthquake engineering, earthquake distribution, rules for designing building structures in seismically active areas and assessing the impact of vibrations on building objects. He will be able to actively participate in seismic measurements and their evaluation according to commonly used methodologies and standards.

The course continues the knowledge acquired during the study of the vibration effect of blasting works. This subject introduces graduates to the basic concepts and knowledge of the vibration field and the basic knowledge of seismology. An important area of seismic engineering is the seismic load of structures. The Eurocode 8 standard is used to assess this seismic load in Europe. In the national application annex for the Czech Republic, a new concept of a map of seismic zones is presented. The technical standard CSN 73 0040 is still used to evaluate the load by technical vibrations; e.g. International standard ISO 4866 is used in Europe.

Villaverde, R.: Fundamental Concept of Earthquake Engineering. CRC Press, 2009. Towhaka, I.: Geotechnical Earthquake Engineering. Springer, 2008.

Shearer, P.M.: Introduction to Seismology. Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, 1999. Gibowicz S.J., Kijko A.: Introduction to Mining Seismology. Academic Press, 1994.