SCI Effects Under Complex Terrains: Shaking Table Tests and Numerical Simulation

In densely-populated cities, complex site-city interaction (SCI) effects can occur and may result in non-negligible influences on the input motions to buildings. Due to its complexity, topographic amplification has not yet been considered in most SCI investigations, particularly in experimental tests. This study conducted seven sets of shaking table tests incorporating complex terrains. The SCI effects induced by different terrains, building frequencies, building configurations, and input motions were investigated. Based on the test results, the reliability of a previously proposed numerical coupling scheme was validated. Finally, through a parametric analysis and a case study, the SCI effects were further illustrated.