Seismic hazard evaluation and soil response analysis of Shamkir and Mingachevir hydroelectric power stations

In regions prone to seismic activity, assessing the seismic hazard of hydroelectric power stations is crucial for maintaining the dependability and robustness of critical infrastructure. In this study, we investigate and compare the seismic response of near-surface soil at the Shamkir and Mingachevir hydroelectric power stations in Azerbaijan when subjected to earthquakes of different magnitudes, utilizing numerical modeling techniques. This analysis not only enables a direct comparison of the sites but also facilitates the identification of underlying geological factors influencing their seismic vulnerability. We particularly focus on the upper 30 meters of soil, exploring its substantial influence on the amplitude-frequency composition of motions and, consequently, its impact on the surface's seismic response. Examining the soil's characteristics, we assess its capacity to either amplify or attenuate seismic motions at specific frequencies. Additionally, this study explores the intricate effects of nonlinear soil deformation on the frequency selectivity of soil, elucidating its role in shaping the amplification patterns of seismic motions. These findings are not only relevant for advancing scientific knowledge but also hold practical significance in formulating effective strategies for enhancing the seismic resilience of critical infrastructure in earthquake-prone regions.