Birendra Kumar Singh,
- , Professor, Civil Engineering Department, Birla Institute of Technology, Mesra, Ranchi, (Jharkhand), Ranchi, India, ,
Abstract
Ground acceleration induced by dynamic loading decreases with increasing lateral distance from the source because of wave attenuation and energy dissipation through the ground. Accurate estimation of ground acceleration at different distances is essential for evaluating the safety and performance of nearby structures, particularly in blasting, seismic, and heavy construction activities. This study presents a simplified linear attenuation model for estimating ground acceleration at greater lateral distances using limited measured data. The model is based on initial ground acceleration values of 6.867 m/s² (0.7 g) at a lateral distance of 0.10 km and 6.860 m/s² at 0.15 km. The observed reduction in acceleration between these two points was used to establish a linear rate of attenuation, which was subsequently employed to estimate ground acceleration at larger distances. Using this approach, the predicted ground acceleration at 1.5 km was found to be approximately 6.671 m/s², while the estimated value at 15 km was 4.781 m/s². The results indicate a gradual decrease in ground acceleration with increasing lateral distance, demonstrating the influence of wave propagation and attenuation on vibration intensity. Although the proposed model is based on a simplified linear assumption, it provides a practical and computationally efficient method for preliminary estimation of ground motion where extensive field measurements are unavailable. The methodology can assist engineers and researchers in conducting initial vibration hazard assessments, planning infrastructure projects, and evaluating the potential effects of dynamic loads on surrounding structures. Future work should incorporate nonlinear attenuation relationships and field validation to improve the accuracy and applicability of the proposed estimation model under varying geological and loading conditions.
Keywords: Ground acceleration, lateral distance, ground motion attenuation, dynamic loading, seismic wave propagation, ground vibration, linear attenuation model, vibration analysis, geotechnical engineering, structural safety, seismic hazard assessment
[This article belongs to Journal of Geotechnical Engineering ]
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Journal of Geotechnical Engineering
| Volume | 13 | |
| Issue | 02 | |
| Received | 22/05/2026 | |
| Accepted | 09/07/2026 | |
| Published | 10/07/2026 | |
| Publication Time | 49 Days |