Floor response spectra of a partially embedded seismically isolated nuclear plant

This paper deals with the effects of foundation embedment on the floor response spectra of big base isolated structures such as nuclear power plants. Analyses of a finite element model, representative of a real nuclear power plant, have been carried out. It has been demonstrated that, in agreement with previous work, base rocking excitation, induced by soil-structure interaction, may amplify the non-isolated modes' response and thus it must not be overlooked. (authors)