Evaluation of ground vibration induced by high-speed trains on embankments

This study uses a comprehensive measurement scheme to evaluate the behavior of ground vibration propagation induced by high-speed trains on embankment structures. Both near-field and far-field vibrations are examined. A wide variety of geological conditions are studied. In the evaluation of the differences in vibration attenuation, various frequency dependences of attenuation coefficient—including overall vibration, low-mid-high range, and 1/3 octave bands—are applied to the field measurement data. In general, the near-field vibration level and overall vibration attenuation decrease with increasing ground shear wave velocity. Furthermore, the vibration attenuation at low frequency is smaller compared to the attenuation at high frequency. Based on these analyses, the interrelationships of vibration level, vibration attenuation, ground shear wave velocity, and frequency are established. Specific analysis recommendations are proposed for the application of ground vibration assessment in engineering and related fields.