THE EFFECTS OF SEISMIC WAVES ON STRUCTURES AND OTHER FACILITIES

The effects of explosion-induced ground motion must be evaluated in planning and executing any nuclear excavation project. For some projects ground motion intensity may dictate the use of less-than-optimum yields to minimize damaging effects. In remote areas, weighing the alternatives of outright purchase of some property or use of smaller yields may be required. The cost of indemnifying owners against damage must be considered in any case. Discussions of the effects of ground motion on three broad types of facilities- engineered structures, residual buildings, and equipment required for the support oi nuclear excavation operations-- are presented. A method of predicting the response of single- and multistoried buildings, the response spectrum technique, is discussed, with emphasis on the application of explosion-induced spectra. Conclusions drawn from several tests of damage to residential-type buildings are presented. Included are data from four investigations of damage caused by commercial and industrial blasting and the results of several studies made in conjunction with underground nuclear detonations. Finally, a survey of damage to the equipment required to carry out excavation projects is summarized. (auth