The influence of nailing on the seismic response of a superstructure with underground stories

Soil nails are mainly designed for excavations for a limited period and are not designed to withstand excavation forces permanently, specifically seismic forces. Despite this issue, when the excavation and retaining walls are completed the permanent effects of nails remain in the soil. This study investigates the effects of soil nailing in soft soils on the seismic response of a superstructure with four underground stories. The results show that soil nailing has a significant effect on the response of the superstructure which should be considered in future soil–structure interaction studies especially when soft soils are encountered.