SH-Wave Propagation in Double Layers Imperfectly Bonded over a Dry Sandy Half-Space

Abstract

The present paper deals with the analytical study of shear horizontal (SH)-wave propagation consisting of a microstructural coupled stress layer over a dry sandy half-space beneath the orthotropic viscoelastic layer with imperfect interfaces. The rigidity and density of the sandy medium are assumed to be exponential distribution functions. Dispersion equations for SH-wave propagation have been derived using suitable boundary conditions in the absence and presence of imperfection parameters. In a particular case, the dispersion equation is reduced to the classical Love wave equation, which validates the present mathematical model. The effect of various parameters in the current model on the phase velocity and damped velocity are discussed in the presence and absence of imperfect interfaces. Numerical computations were carried out for involved parameters and illustrated with the help of graphs. In regions near dams, the presence of sandy soil can lead to increased pore pressure during an earthquake, which can cause soil liquefaction. The event of the earthquake can cause the propagation of a shear horizontal (SH)-wave, which is destructive. Therefore, the area near the reservoir is prone to seismic activities, especially SH-wave propagation. The outcomes of the present analysis may have significant applications in reservoir engineering. The rocks in the dam structures are generally composed of an unsaturated sands medium. In these structures, the sand medium is subjected to a high liquid loading. During an earthquake, the SH-wave may propagate through these structures. Due to its destructive nature, the propagation of an SH-wave may cause damage to these structures. The damage to the reservoir may result in huge economic or human life loss. Therefore, examining the propagation of an SH-wave in these structures is crucial. The present investigation identifies the physical factors that cause the elevation and degradation of SH-wave propagation in the studied sandwiched structure. Therefore, the obtained results may find significant advances in analyzing and developing earthquake-resistant designs used in reservoir engineering.