Vibrations of the surface of an elastic double-layered half-space with a periodic system of cracks

The two-dimensional problem of the normal incidence of a plane transverse wave from the far field on to the free surface of an elastic double-layered half-space, comprising a homogeneous layer attached to a semi-infinite base of a different elastic material, is considered. At the boundary between the two media there is a system of plane cracks, arranged periodically along the separation line, which models the fracture zone at the interface between dense solid rock and soft sedimentary rock. The effect of the fractures on the transmission of a transverse seismic wave generated by a deep-focus earthquake, and of the type of vibrations of the free surface of the ground that result, is studied. It is difficult to predict whether the seismic wave is strengthened or weakened by the fracture zone. The effect of the system of cracks on vibrations of the free surface largely depends on the physical and geometrical parameters and, primarily, on the vibration frequencies. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.