Technical Bulletins

Seismic testing techniques can be used in different ways to help with geotechnical investigations. There is a link between ground motion amplification and the shear wave velocity structure of subsurface soils and bedrock. Canadian and USA building codes both define amplification at a site primarily in terms of six seismic site classes (A - F).

High-quality shear wave seismic data is required to perform an accurate estimate of Vs30 or Vs100. There are ways to the measure shear wave velocity of soil. Several options exist and can be used to optimize the collection of seismic field data during a site investigation program. The purpose of this Technical Bulletin is to summarize the various testing methods available and outline some tactical solutions for collecting seismic data on site characterization projects.