Numerical modeling and formulation of the runup of seismically-induced surge waves in idealized reservoirs

Accurate prediction of the runup of surge waves induced by seismic excitations in reservoirs is of great significance in engineering practices. Available literatures have separately identified the importance of the peak ground velocity and the frequency content of seismic record; however, additional parameters related to the reservoir dimension are also needed. A general formula considering those parameters has not yet been reported. In this study, the dominant parameters contributing mostly to the wave runup are identified through the combination of an in-house-code Navier-Stokes model and the wavelet transformation technique, then based on the dimensional analysis and present numerical results, a new formula accounting for those parameters, namely the peak ground velocity, frequency content of seismic record and reservoir dimension will be proposed to predict the maximal wave runup. The present formula is verified by comparisons among available results in literatures, and better predictions have been guaranteed than available formulas, implying it is applicable to optimize the design of parapet walls. Highlighted is that the most severe surge wave can be triggered by earthquake with low-dominant frequency and large peak ground velocity. © 2021