Site response effects for structures located on sand sites

Results are presented for 4 sand sites forming part of a site response study of 11 soil sites. The results are in the form of spectral accelerations and ratios, base shear coefficients, and foundation factors. They indicate that significant amplifications can be expected at sand sites, especially for low-intensity excitation. Comparisons are made with the provisions of the proposed National Building Code of Canada (NBCC) 1990. They show that, depending on the site and the nature and level of the excitation, the expected base shears can be well in excess of the values specified by the NBCC. Key words: seismic, design, sand, soil, site, response, spectra, amplification, base, shear.