| Abstract: | A finite element method is developed for the study of elastic wave propagation in layered ground environments. The formulation is based on a spectral finite‐element approach using a mixture of high‐order element shape functions and wave solutions. The numerical method provides solutions to vibration transmission on and within layered elastic waveguides. Examples of its use include the theoretical analysis of transmission of vibrations in the vicinity of the surface of the ground. The mathematical model is two dimensional, and the interior of the ground is modelled as an elastic layer overlying a rigid foundation. An analysis of the natural modes of free vibration in a single layer and two layers is presented and compared with known results. In addition the forced response of the layers, for which the surface is assumed to be subjected to a harmonic point force load is shown. These results also include an illustration of the attenuation of surface vibration due to ‘wave impedance blocks’ in the ‘near field’ of the source up to a frequency of 200 Hz for two soil types. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. |
