Checking the site categorization criteria and amplification factors of the 2021 draft of Eurocode 8 Part 1–1

Abstract In this paper the site categorization criteria and corresponding amplification factors proposed in 2021 draft of Part 1 Eurocode 8 (2021-draft, CEN/TC250/SC8 Working Draft N1017) are first introduced compared with current version 8, as well from recent empirical ground motion prediction equations. Afterwards, these values checked by two approaches. First, a wide dataset strong records is built, where recording stations classified according to 2021-draft, spectral amplifications empirically estimated computing site-to-site residuals regional global models for reference rock conditions. Second, comprehensive parametric numerical study one-dimensional (1D) carried out, based on randomly generated shear-wave velocity profiles, new criteria. A reasonably good agreement found both The most relevant discrepancies occur shallow soft soil conditions (soil category E) that, owing complex interaction shear wave velocity, deposit thickness frequency range excitation, show largest scatter terms 1D simulations. Furthermore, simulations tend provide lower than records, because higher impact non-linear (NL) effects site-specific NL at three KiK-net significantly large amount high-intensity recorded motions gives support 2021-draft reduction factors, although very limited number allowing such analysis prevents deriving more general implications. presence controversial arguments, it reasonable that standard should adopt prudent solution, account response, while leaving possibility carry out estimations when sufficient information available model strain dependency local properties.