9315680 Luco This research project is in response to a critical need to validate the mathematical models and computer codes that are used to calculate the dynamic response of important structures for those cases in which significant interaction occurs between the structure and the surrounding soil: In this case through the "blind" prediction of the dynamic response of the Hualien, Taiwan, large-scale model nuclear reactor power plant containment structure during forced vibration tests. (A blind prediction is one in which the prediction is made without knowing in advance what the result should be.) These tests are being conducted by a consortium of organizations, including the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI), the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, and institutions from Taiwan, Japan, Korea and France. The three tasks are: (1) Comparisons of observed data with earlier predictions for the response of the containment model, prior to backfill of the soil surrounding the foundation, are used to test the computer programs employed, and to improve the mathematical models for the structure and the soil. (2) Blind predictions are made for the response of the structure during forced vibration tests, after backfill of the soil surrounding the foundation. (3) The prediction are compared with observations (which are to be released by EPRI only after the blind predictions have been properly recorded) for an overall assessment of the current capability to model the dynamic response of structures partially embedded in medium strength soils and subjected to external forces. Funding for this project is a collaboration between the Nuclear Regulatory Commission and the National Science Foundation. ***
