Nonlinear seismic response of a volcanic hill using the finite element method

Recent research in soil dynamics is directed toward a better understanding of the seismic behavior of soil within the framework of the principles of nonlinear continuum mechanics. The objectives of this paper are: (1) the analysis of seismic response of a volcanic soil at different spots of a hill located in one of islands of the Central Group of Azores Archipel; (2) the influence on the seismic response of increasing peak ground acceleration values; (3) comparison of results from the analytical model with motion recorded during an aftershock of the July 9, 1998 earthquake; (4) the sensitivity of a few model parameters on the response. A finite element bidimensional representation using the Drucker-Prager cap model is employed in the study. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.