Determination of building vibration characteristics using the microtremor method and assessment of risk levels

This study aims to determine the dynamic characteristics of existing buildings in terms of earthquake safety using the microtremor method. The basis of the study involves identifying the natural vibration periods of buildings and classifying building-soil resonance risks and structural risk factors by considering the interaction between the building and the soil. The microtremor method is an economic and effective approach that can measure the natural vibration periods of buildings using low-frequency environmental vibrations without requiring any physical intervention. This method is particularly important for examining the interaction between the soil and the building. The vibration characteristics of buildings were compared with the natural vibration periods of the soils to evaluate the resonance risk. Additionally, based on these risks, attempts were made to provide insights into the potential performance of the buildings during an earthquake. In addition to microtremor measurements, seismic methods and ground-penetrating radar were used to assist with soil classification and structural analysis. The study was conducted on 20 different buildings in İzmir, Aydın, and Manisa provinces. The findings provide crucial data for assessing the performance of buildings in terms of earthquake safety and creating risk maps for the building stock in the region. The results aim to contribute to building-soil resonance analysis, the identification of necessary strategies for strengthening buildings, and further improvements.