Numerical simulations of vibration attenuation of high-speed train foundations with varied trackbed underlayment materials

Interest in high-speed railway as an alternative means of transportation is steadily increasing around the world. However, high-speed trains come with the concern of track vibration and induced noise and ground vibration. Excessive track vibration can cause damage to trains and tracks and reduce riding comfort for passengers. Ground vibration induced by passing trains can also damage and disturb surrounding infrastructure (especially structures housing precision machines or instruments) and residents. One potential solution toward minimizing these vibrations is the use of rubber-modified asphalt concrete (RMAC) as a material for high-speed train trackbed underlayments. In this paper we present the results of a finite element simulation of a high-speed train foundation. The simulated foundation was subjected to dynamic loading in several test scenarios, with RMAC and other traditional paving materials used as trackbed underlayment materials. The ground accelerations at designated points in these simulations were then monitored and compared with one another to determine the relative effectiveness in vibration attenuation. From these parametric studies, RMAC proves to be more effective than currently used paving materials in damping out vibrations from dynamic loading. Implications for field applications are also discussed.