Simulation of Vibration Transmission through Soil Medium: Modelling Peak Particle Velocity Attenuation using Multi-Parameter Analysis

International Journal of Civil Engineering

© 2025 by SSRG - IJCE Journal

Volume 12 Issue 7

Year of Publication : 2025

Authors : Kioko, Paul Christopher Kimali, Sylvester Abuodha, John Mwero, Zacharia Kuria

10.14445/23488352/IJCE-V12I7P117

How to Cite?

Kioko, Paul Christopher Kimali, Sylvester Abuodha, John Mwero, Zacharia Kuria, "Simulation of Vibration Transmission through Soil Medium: Modelling Peak Particle Velocity Attenuation using Multi-Parameter Analysis," SSRG International Journal of Civil Engineering, vol. 12,  no. 7, pp. 200-227, 2025. Crossref, https://doi.org/10.14445/23488352/IJCE-V12I7P117

Abstract:

Ground motion from freight rail transport can significantly impact nearby structures, necessitating an understanding of vibration transmission through soil. This study investigates vibration attenuation in compliance with the International Organization for Standardization. (2005). Mechanical vibration—Ground-borne noise and vibration arising from rail systems—Part 1: General guidance (ISO 14837-1:2005); Geneva, Switzerland: ISO [24] using triaxial ADXL-345 accelerometers [5,9] and I2C protocol for data logging at 8-metre intervals from the rail line. Ground vibration was measured as Peak Particle Velocity (PPV), derived from acceleration data via double integration in Python. The highest recorded PPV was 8.065 mm/s at 8 metres, attenuating to 2.466 mm/s at 32 metres with significant decay below 15 Hz frequency. A multi-parameter exponential model analyzed PPV attenuation considering soil properties like California bearing ratio, stiffness, shear strength, density and Poisson’s ratio. Field results aligned with model predictions, showing PPVs within recognized safety standards such as EuroCode 8[17]. Vibrations were below damage thresholds, with safety assured beyond 100 metres from the rail line. This study enhances understanding of soil dynamics, providing a predictive model for PPV attenuation that aids in designing resilient structures and mitigating vibration-induced damage. Future research should incorporate machine learning to improve predictive accuracy, advancing infrastructure resilience and compliance with global standards.

Keywords:

ADXL-345 accelerometers, Freight rail transport, Ground motion, Peak particle velocity, Vibration transmission.

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