Geotechnical Zonation and Vs30 Classification of Soil for Seismic Site Effects Evaluation in the Western Extension of New Aswan City, Egypt

The Egyptian government has been constructing several new cities in recent years to accommodate the rapidly growing population. One of these cities is located in the western extension of New Aswan City. The primary goal of this study is to identify the dynamic engineering properties of underlying rocks by analysis of compressional and shear-wave velocities. Additionally, the Vs30 for site classification has been estimated to delineate the potential likely causes of structural building damages. Engineering features and several significant elastic moduli were assessed. The proposed site consists of two geoseismic units: the upper layer is composed of gravel, friable sands, and sandstone in some places, while the second layer is characterized by stiff sandstone with clay intercalations. They are low- to high-competence rock, respectively. By applying the NEHRP’s guidelines, Vs30 was estimated for near-surface geologic units. Consequently, the defined site was split into two categories: type C, which describes the major part of the area, and class B (rigid rock). In addition, to evaluate the site effects, the soil amplification and site natural period have been estimated to avoid any probable impact of the interactions between the soil and structure. The soil conditions of the study area tend to form a possible danger for one to three story structures during any possible earthquake. In conclusion, the estimated geotechnical characteristics and site classification principally act as a key for seismic site evaluation, which will utilize as input parameters for civil construction purposes.