Dr. Annie Kammerer, PE
Consultant/Owner
Annie Kammerer Consulting
Visiting Scholar
Pacific Earthquake Engineering Research Center,
University of California, Berkeley
Annie Kammerer Consulting
Visiting Scholar
Pacific Earthquake Engineering Research Center,
University of California, Berkeley
Enter the name for this tabbed section: Education & Training
Education
- Ph.D. in Geotechnical Earthquake Engineering with minors in Seismology and Structural Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, 2002
- M.S. in Geotechnical Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, 1998
- B.S. Civil and Environmental Engineering with emphases in Geotechnical and Environmental Engineering , University of California, Berkeley, 1996
- PE Licensed 66652, California
- Seismic Qualification Users Group (SQUG) Walkdown Screening and Seismic Evaluation Training Course Certified
- External Events Probabilistic Risk Assessment
- Systems Analysis Program for Hands-on Integrated Reliability (SAPHIRE) Probabilistic Risk Assessment Software
- Seismic Dynamics and Seismic Qualification
- Westinghouse Technology Pressurized Water Reactors
- Department of Energy workshop on Areva’s Evolutionary (European) Pressurized Reactor
- Certified Federal Contracting Officer’s Technical Representative (CORT) and Project Manager
- US NRC project management training
- NRC Nuclear Plant Site Access certification training
Enter the name for this tabbed section: Associations
Professional Associations
- Earthquake Engineering Research Institute (EERI), Member
- Seismological Society of America, Member
- American Nuclear Society, Member
- Women in Nuclear, Member
- Geo-Engineering Earthquake Reconnaissance Association (GEER), Member
- American Association of Structural Mechanics in Reactor Technology, Member
Enter the name for this tabbed section: Awards & Honors
Awards and Honors (select)
US NRC Performance Award for Technical Implementation of Near Term Task Force Recommendation 2.3 Seismic Walkdowns, 2012
US NRC Group Award for the Central and Eastern United States Seismic Source Characterization for Nuclear Facilities Project, 2012
US NRC Special Act Award for Fukushima Response, 2011
US NRC Performance Awards, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013
National Academy of Engineering, Frontiers of Engineering Participant, 2008
US NRC Office of Nuclear Regulatory Research Employee of the Month, January 2007
Ove Arup & Partners Global Innovation Competition Winner, 2006
EERI/FEMA NEHRP Graduate Fellowship, 2001-2002
National Science Foundation (NSF) Research Fellowship, 1997-2000
US NRC Performance Award for Technical Implementation of Near Term Task Force Recommendation 2.3 Seismic Walkdowns, 2012
US NRC Group Award for the Central and Eastern United States Seismic Source Characterization for Nuclear Facilities Project, 2012
US NRC Special Act Award for Fukushima Response, 2011
US NRC Performance Awards, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013
National Academy of Engineering, Frontiers of Engineering Participant, 2008
US NRC Office of Nuclear Regulatory Research Employee of the Month, January 2007
Ove Arup & Partners Global Innovation Competition Winner, 2006
EERI/FEMA NEHRP Graduate Fellowship, 2001-2002
National Science Foundation (NSF) Research Fellowship, 1997-2000
Enter the name for this tabbed section: Professional Service
Professional Activities and Service
Working Group 5 (Standard for External Events PRA) under the ANS-ASME Joint Committee on Nuclear Risk Management, Member, 2013-ongoing
Structural Mechanics in Reactor Technology (SMiRT) conference, International Scientific Committee, Organizing Committee and Division IV (Loading) Co-Chair (SMiRT 22 and 23), 2012-ongoing
IAEA ISSC Tsunami Probabilistic Safety Assessment working group, 2013-ongoing
GEER Steering Committee, 2009-ongoing
EERI Friedman Family Visiting Professional, 2007-ongoing
International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) International Seismic Safety Center (ISSC), Seismic Re-evaluation of NPP Working Area, Co-Chair, 2011-2013
IAEA ISSC Seismic Isolation Special Working Group, Co-Chair, 2011-2013
USGS Advanced National Seismic System Network, National Steering Committee, 2008-2013
US NRC Seismic Issues Technical Advisory Group, Member, 2006-2013
Interagency Working Group on Enhanced Seismic Monitoring in the Central and Eastern United States, United States Office of Science and Technology Policy, 2012
Transportable Array Station Selection Working Group, United States Geological Survey (USGS) National Earthquake Information Center, 2012
2012 Indo-American Frontiers of Engineering (IAFOE) symposium, National Academy of Engineering, Organizing committee and U.S. Co-chair for Engineering Large Infrastructure for Disaster/Hazards Session, 2011-2012
US NRC Flooding Technical Advisory Group, Founding Chair, 2007-2009, Member 2009–2011
Applied Technology Council Task Order 10 - Improved Procedures for Characterizing and Modeling Soil-Structure Interaction for Performance-Based Seismic Engineering, National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), Project Review Panel Member, 2010-2011
US Representative to the IAEA ISSC, 2009-2011
GEER (NSF) Reconnaissance team for the 23 August 2011 M5.8 Central Virginia Earthquake near Mineral, Virginia, 2011
IAEA International Workshop on External Flooding Hazards at Nuclear Power Plant Sites in Commemoration of the 5 years of the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami, Organizing Committee, 2009-2010
IAEA Extra-budgetary Project on Protection of Nuclear Power Plants Against Tsunami and Post Earthquake Considerations in the External Zone, Deputy Chair, 2007-2010
Participant on USGS panel to determine priorities for National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program (NEHRP) grants, 2006, 2007, 2009 & 2011
National Science Foundation (NSF) Independent Committee Investigating the Failure of Levees in New Orleans, through UC Berkeley, 2006-2007
Participant on NSF panels to determine funding priorities for grants, 2004 through 2007
11th International Conference on Soil Dynamics and Earthquake Engineering, Organizing and Editorial Committees, 2004
PEER Reconnaissance Team member for Feb 28, 2001 Nisqually Earthquake Reconnaissance, Puget Sound Region, Washington
Working Group 5 (Standard for External Events PRA) under the ANS-ASME Joint Committee on Nuclear Risk Management, Member, 2013-ongoing
Structural Mechanics in Reactor Technology (SMiRT) conference, International Scientific Committee, Organizing Committee and Division IV (Loading) Co-Chair (SMiRT 22 and 23), 2012-ongoing
IAEA ISSC Tsunami Probabilistic Safety Assessment working group, 2013-ongoing
GEER Steering Committee, 2009-ongoing
EERI Friedman Family Visiting Professional, 2007-ongoing
International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) International Seismic Safety Center (ISSC), Seismic Re-evaluation of NPP Working Area, Co-Chair, 2011-2013
IAEA ISSC Seismic Isolation Special Working Group, Co-Chair, 2011-2013
USGS Advanced National Seismic System Network, National Steering Committee, 2008-2013
US NRC Seismic Issues Technical Advisory Group, Member, 2006-2013
Interagency Working Group on Enhanced Seismic Monitoring in the Central and Eastern United States, United States Office of Science and Technology Policy, 2012
Transportable Array Station Selection Working Group, United States Geological Survey (USGS) National Earthquake Information Center, 2012
2012 Indo-American Frontiers of Engineering (IAFOE) symposium, National Academy of Engineering, Organizing committee and U.S. Co-chair for Engineering Large Infrastructure for Disaster/Hazards Session, 2011-2012
US NRC Flooding Technical Advisory Group, Founding Chair, 2007-2009, Member 2009–2011
Applied Technology Council Task Order 10 - Improved Procedures for Characterizing and Modeling Soil-Structure Interaction for Performance-Based Seismic Engineering, National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), Project Review Panel Member, 2010-2011
US Representative to the IAEA ISSC, 2009-2011
GEER (NSF) Reconnaissance team for the 23 August 2011 M5.8 Central Virginia Earthquake near Mineral, Virginia, 2011
IAEA International Workshop on External Flooding Hazards at Nuclear Power Plant Sites in Commemoration of the 5 years of the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami, Organizing Committee, 2009-2010
IAEA Extra-budgetary Project on Protection of Nuclear Power Plants Against Tsunami and Post Earthquake Considerations in the External Zone, Deputy Chair, 2007-2010
Participant on USGS panel to determine priorities for National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program (NEHRP) grants, 2006, 2007, 2009 & 2011
National Science Foundation (NSF) Independent Committee Investigating the Failure of Levees in New Orleans, through UC Berkeley, 2006-2007
Participant on NSF panels to determine funding priorities for grants, 2004 through 2007
11th International Conference on Soil Dynamics and Earthquake Engineering, Organizing and Editorial Committees, 2004
PEER Reconnaissance Team member for Feb 28, 2001 Nisqually Earthquake Reconnaissance, Puget Sound Region, Washington
Enter the name for this tabbed section: Papers & Presentations
See the papers download page for a searchable list of all papers.
See the presentations download page for a searchable list of all papers.
See the presentations download page for a searchable list of all papers.
Enter the name for this tabbed section: Nuclear Projects
Project Experience
Nuclear Energy
Technical Support for Seismic Isolation of Suspended Components
For Idaho National Laboratory
Developing advanced technical report to support use of seismic isolation technology in new nuclear facilities. The report under development addresses technical and regulatory issues and builds upon previous efforts by the NRC and ASCE.
TerraPower Seismic Advisory Panel
For TerraPower, LLC
Providing input on technical and regulatory issues related to development of a new advanced nuclear reactor. Assisted with development of performance criteria for NPP and plan for seismic qualification of isolator units.
Seismic Risk-Informed Methodology Peer Review
For Idaho National Laboratory
Provided technical input and review as member of the INL Risk-Informed Methodology Independent Review Panel convened to review, refine, and validate INL’s methodology for quantifying the significance of seismic risk at its existing nuclear facilities in order to meet DOE O 420.1C requirement that existing facility or site natural phenomena hazards (NPH) assessments must be reviewed at least every 10 years for any significant changes in data, criteria, and assessment methods that would warrant updating the assessments.
Fermi 2 Seismic Probabilistic Risk Analysis Peer Review
For DTE Electric Company
Provided end-of-process peer review for a Seismic PRA against Capability Category II of the requirements of Technical Element SHA (i.e., seismic hazard assessment) of Part 5 of the ANS/ASME PRA Standard (ASME/ANS RA-Sb-2013), following the process set forward in NEI-12-13.
Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory NRC Seismic Research Review Panel
Research review panel providing input to LBNL team performing research for Nuclear Regulatory Commission-sponsored projects on soil-structure-interaction, seismic isolation, correlated performance of like SSC under simultaneous loading, and a technology-neutral framework.
Peer Review Panel for the “Modern Computational Framework for Nonlinear Seismic Analysis of Nuclear Facilities and Systems Project”
For joint project by Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, University of California, Davis and, University of Nevada, Reno
Peer review panel member for large research project focused on development of advanced fault-to-structure simulation of earthquake loading.
Technical Support for Advanced Seismic Risk Assessment Activities
For Idaho National Laboratory
Assisting with development of new framework, tool set and methodology for next generation external event SPRA.
mPower Small Modular Reactor Design Certification Documentation
With Bechtel Corporation
Developed Section 2.5.2 (vibratory ground motion) of the mPower Design Certification Documentation for submission to the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission.
Fukushima Near Term Task Force Recommendation Implementation
With US Nuclear Regulatory Commission
As NRC NTTF Recommendation 2.3 Seismic Walkdowns Technical and Project Lead: responsible for review of 104 walkdown report submissions to NRC, responsible for development\ of fleet and program-wide lessons learned documentation and for ongoing briefings to NRC management, led public meetings during seismic walkdown guidance development (resulted in NRC-endorsed EPRI1025286), assisted in development of NRC Temporary Instruction 2515-188, trained NRC Resident Inspectors on seismic walkdowns and TI2515-188, participated in pilot seismic walkdown at Kuwaunee NPP, Responsible for development of fleet and program-wide lessons learned documentation and for ongoing briefings to NRC management. Also NTTF Recommendation 2.1 Seismic Hazard and Risk Reevaluation, Technical Team Member and co-coordinating author for publication of JLD-ISG-2012-04, “Guidance on Performing a Seismic Margin Assessment in Response to the March 2012 Request for Information Letter”.
Next Generation Attenuation Relationships for Eastern North America (NGA-East) Project
With US Nuclear Regulatory Commission and PEER Center at UC Berkeley
From 2007 to 2013, NRC Project Manager, Joint Management Committee Member, SSHAC Guidelines Process Manager for joint NRC/USGS/DOE/EPRI project developing new ground motion prediction equations for eastern North America. From 2014, onwards project team participant. http://peer.berkeley.edu/ngaeast/
Assessment of Potential Impact of Shoreline Fault on the Diablo Canyon Power Plant
With US Nuclear Regulatory Commission
As NRC Diablo Canyon NPP Seismic Hazard Assessment Review Technical Lead, performed analysis for deterministic seismic hazard analysis and published findings in US NRC Research information Letter (RIL) 12-01, performed analysis for deterministic seismic hazard analysis and published findings in US NRC Research information Letter (RIL) 09-001, assisted NRC Office of General Council with Petitions, assisted relicensing team with Seismic Hazard Related RAIs for SAMA Analysis, assisted with organization of, and participated in, 2 day public workshop on seismic issues, and oversaw confirmatory analysis of secondary fault rupture hazard assessment and developed report to NRR.
Fukushima Emergency Response and Post-Fukushima Program Development
With US Nuclear Regulatory Commission
As member of Reactor Safety Team, provided technical input in the Emergency Operations Center for approximately 1 month during the Fukushima Accident (resulted in 2011 Fukushima Special Act Award), provided significant support to Office of Public Affairs during Fukushima Disaster, including authoring Public Q&As posted on the US NRC website. Acted as member of special committee assigned to develop the NRC Staff’s 21- and 45-day implantation recommendations to the Near Term Task Force Report. Committee recommendations published as SECY-11-0124 and SECY-11-0137.
Comparison of Current and Historical Seismic Design and Regulations of the US and Japan
With US Nuclear Regulatory Commission
Principal NRC investigator and contributing author to new NUREG report (currently in review) that describes the approaches to seismic hazard assessment, seismic analysis, and seismic design of nuclear power plants in the US and Japan over time. The objective of this study and report is to document and understand the approaches used by both countries such that the performance of plants in both countries could be better understood.
Development of Technical Basis for Regulation of Nuclear Power Plants that Incorporate Seismic Isolation Technologies
With US Nuclear Regulatory Commission
Principal NRC investigator and contributing author to new NUREG report (currently in review) that summarizes information on seismic isolation technologies and provides possible new approaches to performance-based, risk-informed regulation of the technologies.
Nuclear ShakeCAST External Events Notification System Development
With US Nuclear Regulatory Commission
NRC Activities Coordinator and technical lead of joint IAEA/USGS/NOAA/NRC project to develop a new post-earthquake notification for situational awareness immediately following an earthquake that produces shaking at a nuclear plant.
International Atomic Energy Agency Seismic Hazard Training Development
With Lettis Consultants International
Developed material for IAEA trainings on seismic hazard analysis provided to newcomer nations and other Member States.
International Atomic Energy Agency Extra-Budgetary Project on Protection of Nuclear Power Plants Against Tsunami and Post Earthquake Considerations in the External Zone
With US Nuclear Regulatory Commission and International Atomic Energy Agency
Acted as Deputy Chair of IAEA Extra-budgetary Project focused on transferring current US and Japanese modeling tools for tsunami hazard assessment to newcomer nations and nations that had not previously performed modern tsunami hazard assessments for operating reactors. Duties also included acting as coordinator of US participants, which included NRC, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), and the United States Geological Survey. Facilitated training of Member State participants on NOAA’s ComMIT numerical modeling software.
Update of International Atomic Energy Agency Guidance on Flooding
With US Nuclear Regulatory Commission and International Atomic Energy Agency
Acted as US expert on tsunami on project to update international guidance on tsunami hazard assessment. Participated as contributing author of new IAEA Safety Series Guide 18 (2012).
Central and Eastern United States Seismic Source Characterization for Nuclear Facilities
With US Nuclear Regulatory Commission
Acted as Participatory Peer Review Panel Member and NRC Funding Technical Monitor for project to develop new seismic source characterization model for the central and eastern US using guidance for Level 3 projects in NUREG/CR-6372 and NUREG 2117. The final model and report was published as NUREG 2115 (2011) and is available at www.ceus-ssc.com.
Development of new guidance on the use of the Senior Seismic Hazard Analysis Committee (SSHAC) Methodology
With US Nuclear Regulatory Commission
Acted as project manager and contributing author to two projects focused on developing additional practical guidance on the use of the SSHAC methodology (i.e., NUREG/CR-6372). The first project, conducted with the USGS’s Menlo Park office, focused on holding a series of workshops to identify (1) lessons learned from past SSHAC–based studies and (2) recommendations for practical application of the methodology moving forward. The second project was focused on development and publication of new guidance and resulted in NRC NUREG 2117 (2012).
Development of Regulatory Guide 1.208 describing Seismic Design Spectra Development for New US Reactors
With US Nuclear Regulatory Commission
Acted as project manager and contributing author in the development of of Regulatory Guide 1.208, “A Performance-Based Approach to Define the Site-Specific Earthquake Ground Motion” (2007). Was awarded NRC Office of Nuclear Regulatory Research (RES) employee of the month as a result of the rapid turn-around of a high quality guidance document.
Development of Regulatory Guide 1.100 describing Seismic Qualification of Equipment
With US Nuclear Regulatory Commission
Acted as contributing author of, Regulatory Guide 1.100, “Seismic Qualification of Electric and Mechanical Equipment for Nuclear Power Plants” (2008-2009, published 2010).
Development of Technical Basis for Review of Tsunami Hazard Assessment of New US Reactors
With US Nuclear Regulatory Commission
Acted as project Manager and technical lead for multiple USGS and NOAA research projects to develop technical basis for review of tsunami hazard assessment for new US reactors. Projects resulted in a large number of technical publications that have been used by both the NRC and industry in the US.
Development of NRC Time-Domain Soil-Structure-Interaction Software
With US Nuclear Regulatory Commission
Acted as project Manager and technical lead in the development of a new advanced time-domain SSI modeling software for NRC staff. The software, called the NRC Earthquake Soil-Structure Interaction (ESSI) Simulator, was developed to address specific technical issues being researched by the NRC (e.g. the impact of incoherent motions if modeled in the time-domain). It has also been developed for use by staff in the Office of New Reactors who may be reviewing reactor designs that incorporate seismic isolation technologies.
IAEA Preliminary Review of the Seismic and Volcanic Hazard Assessment of the New Unit at the Armenian NPP Site
Armenia (with the International Atomic Energy Agency)
International Atomic Energy Agency External Expert on Seismic Hazard for review of probabilistic seismic hazard assessment for new reactor at the Metasmor NPP site in Armenia.
NRC Assistance to Armenian National Regulatory Agency on Seismic Hazard Guidance
Armenia (with the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission)
Acted as coordinating reviewer of proposed guidance in support of new guidance developed by the Armenian National Regulatory Agency.
SSHAC Level 3 Seismic Hazard Assessment Study for New Nuclear Power Generation Facilities
South Africa
Participatory Peer Review Panel Member and Pro-Bono Consultant to National Nuclear Regulatory Agency for SSHAC Level 3 Site Specific Studies for New Nuclear Power Generation Facilities in South Africa.
Swiss Nuclear Safety Inspectorate PEGASOS Project (Probabilistic Earthquake Hazard Assessment for nuclear power plant sites in Switzerland)
Switzerland (with Dr. Norman A. Abrahamson)
Summarized current available research and conducted new studies examining non-traditional dynamic parameters that can be used for the development of fragility curves to be used in probabilistic safety analysis of four nuclear power plants in Switzerland. Fragility curves, which relate ground motion levels to the probability of certain damages states occurring at the plants, have traditionally predicted damage states based on peak ground acceleration (PGA) and 5% damping. This study considered new fragility curves based on response spectra values using damping values other than 5%, based on peak ground velocity, or based on spectral acceleration averaged over a frequency band (e.g. 5-10 Hz) as opposed to a single discrete frequency or the PGA.
Nuclear Energy
Technical Support for Seismic Isolation of Suspended Components
For Idaho National Laboratory
Developing advanced technical report to support use of seismic isolation technology in new nuclear facilities. The report under development addresses technical and regulatory issues and builds upon previous efforts by the NRC and ASCE.
TerraPower Seismic Advisory Panel
For TerraPower, LLC
Providing input on technical and regulatory issues related to development of a new advanced nuclear reactor. Assisted with development of performance criteria for NPP and plan for seismic qualification of isolator units.
Seismic Risk-Informed Methodology Peer Review
For Idaho National Laboratory
Provided technical input and review as member of the INL Risk-Informed Methodology Independent Review Panel convened to review, refine, and validate INL’s methodology for quantifying the significance of seismic risk at its existing nuclear facilities in order to meet DOE O 420.1C requirement that existing facility or site natural phenomena hazards (NPH) assessments must be reviewed at least every 10 years for any significant changes in data, criteria, and assessment methods that would warrant updating the assessments.
Fermi 2 Seismic Probabilistic Risk Analysis Peer Review
For DTE Electric Company
Provided end-of-process peer review for a Seismic PRA against Capability Category II of the requirements of Technical Element SHA (i.e., seismic hazard assessment) of Part 5 of the ANS/ASME PRA Standard (ASME/ANS RA-Sb-2013), following the process set forward in NEI-12-13.
Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory NRC Seismic Research Review Panel
Research review panel providing input to LBNL team performing research for Nuclear Regulatory Commission-sponsored projects on soil-structure-interaction, seismic isolation, correlated performance of like SSC under simultaneous loading, and a technology-neutral framework.
Peer Review Panel for the “Modern Computational Framework for Nonlinear Seismic Analysis of Nuclear Facilities and Systems Project”
For joint project by Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, University of California, Davis and, University of Nevada, Reno
Peer review panel member for large research project focused on development of advanced fault-to-structure simulation of earthquake loading.
Technical Support for Advanced Seismic Risk Assessment Activities
For Idaho National Laboratory
Assisting with development of new framework, tool set and methodology for next generation external event SPRA.
mPower Small Modular Reactor Design Certification Documentation
With Bechtel Corporation
Developed Section 2.5.2 (vibratory ground motion) of the mPower Design Certification Documentation for submission to the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission.
Fukushima Near Term Task Force Recommendation Implementation
With US Nuclear Regulatory Commission
As NRC NTTF Recommendation 2.3 Seismic Walkdowns Technical and Project Lead: responsible for review of 104 walkdown report submissions to NRC, responsible for development\ of fleet and program-wide lessons learned documentation and for ongoing briefings to NRC management, led public meetings during seismic walkdown guidance development (resulted in NRC-endorsed EPRI1025286), assisted in development of NRC Temporary Instruction 2515-188, trained NRC Resident Inspectors on seismic walkdowns and TI2515-188, participated in pilot seismic walkdown at Kuwaunee NPP, Responsible for development of fleet and program-wide lessons learned documentation and for ongoing briefings to NRC management. Also NTTF Recommendation 2.1 Seismic Hazard and Risk Reevaluation, Technical Team Member and co-coordinating author for publication of JLD-ISG-2012-04, “Guidance on Performing a Seismic Margin Assessment in Response to the March 2012 Request for Information Letter”.
Next Generation Attenuation Relationships for Eastern North America (NGA-East) Project
With US Nuclear Regulatory Commission and PEER Center at UC Berkeley
From 2007 to 2013, NRC Project Manager, Joint Management Committee Member, SSHAC Guidelines Process Manager for joint NRC/USGS/DOE/EPRI project developing new ground motion prediction equations for eastern North America. From 2014, onwards project team participant. http://peer.berkeley.edu/ngaeast/
Assessment of Potential Impact of Shoreline Fault on the Diablo Canyon Power Plant
With US Nuclear Regulatory Commission
As NRC Diablo Canyon NPP Seismic Hazard Assessment Review Technical Lead, performed analysis for deterministic seismic hazard analysis and published findings in US NRC Research information Letter (RIL) 12-01, performed analysis for deterministic seismic hazard analysis and published findings in US NRC Research information Letter (RIL) 09-001, assisted NRC Office of General Council with Petitions, assisted relicensing team with Seismic Hazard Related RAIs for SAMA Analysis, assisted with organization of, and participated in, 2 day public workshop on seismic issues, and oversaw confirmatory analysis of secondary fault rupture hazard assessment and developed report to NRR.
Fukushima Emergency Response and Post-Fukushima Program Development
With US Nuclear Regulatory Commission
As member of Reactor Safety Team, provided technical input in the Emergency Operations Center for approximately 1 month during the Fukushima Accident (resulted in 2011 Fukushima Special Act Award), provided significant support to Office of Public Affairs during Fukushima Disaster, including authoring Public Q&As posted on the US NRC website. Acted as member of special committee assigned to develop the NRC Staff’s 21- and 45-day implantation recommendations to the Near Term Task Force Report. Committee recommendations published as SECY-11-0124 and SECY-11-0137.
Comparison of Current and Historical Seismic Design and Regulations of the US and Japan
With US Nuclear Regulatory Commission
Principal NRC investigator and contributing author to new NUREG report (currently in review) that describes the approaches to seismic hazard assessment, seismic analysis, and seismic design of nuclear power plants in the US and Japan over time. The objective of this study and report is to document and understand the approaches used by both countries such that the performance of plants in both countries could be better understood.
Development of Technical Basis for Regulation of Nuclear Power Plants that Incorporate Seismic Isolation Technologies
With US Nuclear Regulatory Commission
Principal NRC investigator and contributing author to new NUREG report (currently in review) that summarizes information on seismic isolation technologies and provides possible new approaches to performance-based, risk-informed regulation of the technologies.
Nuclear ShakeCAST External Events Notification System Development
With US Nuclear Regulatory Commission
NRC Activities Coordinator and technical lead of joint IAEA/USGS/NOAA/NRC project to develop a new post-earthquake notification for situational awareness immediately following an earthquake that produces shaking at a nuclear plant.
International Atomic Energy Agency Seismic Hazard Training Development
With Lettis Consultants International
Developed material for IAEA trainings on seismic hazard analysis provided to newcomer nations and other Member States.
International Atomic Energy Agency Extra-Budgetary Project on Protection of Nuclear Power Plants Against Tsunami and Post Earthquake Considerations in the External Zone
With US Nuclear Regulatory Commission and International Atomic Energy Agency
Acted as Deputy Chair of IAEA Extra-budgetary Project focused on transferring current US and Japanese modeling tools for tsunami hazard assessment to newcomer nations and nations that had not previously performed modern tsunami hazard assessments for operating reactors. Duties also included acting as coordinator of US participants, which included NRC, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), and the United States Geological Survey. Facilitated training of Member State participants on NOAA’s ComMIT numerical modeling software.
Update of International Atomic Energy Agency Guidance on Flooding
With US Nuclear Regulatory Commission and International Atomic Energy Agency
Acted as US expert on tsunami on project to update international guidance on tsunami hazard assessment. Participated as contributing author of new IAEA Safety Series Guide 18 (2012).
Central and Eastern United States Seismic Source Characterization for Nuclear Facilities
With US Nuclear Regulatory Commission
Acted as Participatory Peer Review Panel Member and NRC Funding Technical Monitor for project to develop new seismic source characterization model for the central and eastern US using guidance for Level 3 projects in NUREG/CR-6372 and NUREG 2117. The final model and report was published as NUREG 2115 (2011) and is available at www.ceus-ssc.com.
Development of new guidance on the use of the Senior Seismic Hazard Analysis Committee (SSHAC) Methodology
With US Nuclear Regulatory Commission
Acted as project manager and contributing author to two projects focused on developing additional practical guidance on the use of the SSHAC methodology (i.e., NUREG/CR-6372). The first project, conducted with the USGS’s Menlo Park office, focused on holding a series of workshops to identify (1) lessons learned from past SSHAC–based studies and (2) recommendations for practical application of the methodology moving forward. The second project was focused on development and publication of new guidance and resulted in NRC NUREG 2117 (2012).
Development of Regulatory Guide 1.208 describing Seismic Design Spectra Development for New US Reactors
With US Nuclear Regulatory Commission
Acted as project manager and contributing author in the development of of Regulatory Guide 1.208, “A Performance-Based Approach to Define the Site-Specific Earthquake Ground Motion” (2007). Was awarded NRC Office of Nuclear Regulatory Research (RES) employee of the month as a result of the rapid turn-around of a high quality guidance document.
Development of Regulatory Guide 1.100 describing Seismic Qualification of Equipment
With US Nuclear Regulatory Commission
Acted as contributing author of, Regulatory Guide 1.100, “Seismic Qualification of Electric and Mechanical Equipment for Nuclear Power Plants” (2008-2009, published 2010).
Development of Technical Basis for Review of Tsunami Hazard Assessment of New US Reactors
With US Nuclear Regulatory Commission
Acted as project Manager and technical lead for multiple USGS and NOAA research projects to develop technical basis for review of tsunami hazard assessment for new US reactors. Projects resulted in a large number of technical publications that have been used by both the NRC and industry in the US.
Development of NRC Time-Domain Soil-Structure-Interaction Software
With US Nuclear Regulatory Commission
Acted as project Manager and technical lead in the development of a new advanced time-domain SSI modeling software for NRC staff. The software, called the NRC Earthquake Soil-Structure Interaction (ESSI) Simulator, was developed to address specific technical issues being researched by the NRC (e.g. the impact of incoherent motions if modeled in the time-domain). It has also been developed for use by staff in the Office of New Reactors who may be reviewing reactor designs that incorporate seismic isolation technologies.
IAEA Preliminary Review of the Seismic and Volcanic Hazard Assessment of the New Unit at the Armenian NPP Site
Armenia (with the International Atomic Energy Agency)
International Atomic Energy Agency External Expert on Seismic Hazard for review of probabilistic seismic hazard assessment for new reactor at the Metasmor NPP site in Armenia.
NRC Assistance to Armenian National Regulatory Agency on Seismic Hazard Guidance
Armenia (with the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission)
Acted as coordinating reviewer of proposed guidance in support of new guidance developed by the Armenian National Regulatory Agency.
SSHAC Level 3 Seismic Hazard Assessment Study for New Nuclear Power Generation Facilities
South Africa
Participatory Peer Review Panel Member and Pro-Bono Consultant to National Nuclear Regulatory Agency for SSHAC Level 3 Site Specific Studies for New Nuclear Power Generation Facilities in South Africa.
Swiss Nuclear Safety Inspectorate PEGASOS Project (Probabilistic Earthquake Hazard Assessment for nuclear power plant sites in Switzerland)
Switzerland (with Dr. Norman A. Abrahamson)
Summarized current available research and conducted new studies examining non-traditional dynamic parameters that can be used for the development of fragility curves to be used in probabilistic safety analysis of four nuclear power plants in Switzerland. Fragility curves, which relate ground motion levels to the probability of certain damages states occurring at the plants, have traditionally predicted damage states based on peak ground acceleration (PGA) and 5% damping. This study considered new fragility curves based on response spectra values using damping values other than 5%, based on peak ground velocity, or based on spectral acceleration averaged over a frequency band (e.g. 5-10 Hz) as opposed to a single discrete frequency or the PGA.
Enter the name for this tabbed section: Oil & Gas
Project Experience
Natural Gas, Oil and Coal Energy
Sakhalin Energy Sakhalin II LNG Project Seismic Criteria Development
Sakhalin Island, Russia (with Ove Arup & Partners)
Determined relevant seismic hazard levels based on Russian SNIP building code for temporary dry dock to be used for offshore natural gas platform construction. Performed desk study to determine appropriate damping and force reduction values to be used in assessment and design of on-shore LNG tanks. Performed desk study examining conversion of acceleration response spectra to displacement response spectra for offshore platform structure based on available knowledge and attenuation relations.
Energia Costa Azul Onshore LNG Receiving Terminal
Baja California, Mexico (with Ove Arup & Partners)
Performed multiple roles as necessary during all phases of the project from FEED design to construction. Roles included owner’s design engineer, on-site owner’s engineer and project manager in Mexico, scientific and field investigation project manager in Mexico, and construction monitor for offshore elements. Responsibilities included managing and overseeing over $5 million of scientific field investigations; performing due diligence on port and quarry contracts and permitting requirements; assisting client with facility’s federal permits; development of ITB design-build bid documentation on port and quarry facilities; assisting client in negotiation, procurement and development of caisson construction port facilities in the Port of Ensenada; performing construction quality control audits on offshore facility geologic materials and placement.
Nearshore LNG Terminal and Casting Basin Seismic Hazard Assessments
Gulf of Mexico (with Ove Arup & Partners)
Performed seismic hazard study and developed seismic criteria for offshore LNG facility based on relevant NFPA, ACI and ISO codes. Performed Hazard study based on probabilistic seismic hazard assessment and NEHRP mapping and methodology.
Ingleside, Texas (with Ove Arup & Partners)
Performed probabilistic seismic hazard study, performed liquefaction assessment, and developed seismic criteria for casting basin to be used for construction of offshore LNG facility. Analysis and recommendations of hazard levels used in design were based on US Army Corps of Engineers requirements for dams with adjustments based on limited life span of casting basin facilities.
Onshore LNG Receiving Terminal Foundation Seismic Design Criteria
Long Beach, California (with Ove Arup & Partners)
As part of tender and FEED design, performed site response analyses and developed seismic soil parameters and spring constants for soil-structure interaction finite element modeling of tank foundations in liquefiable soil. Performed peer review of finite element modeling results. Seismic soil parameters developed for native, liquefied, and improved ground conditions. Assisted in report preparation and addressing technical and licensing issues. Participated in presentation of analysis and design details to FERC review panel in order to successfully gain FERC approval for schematic design.
Extreme Event Probable Maximum Loss Study for Coal Fired Power Facilities
Philippine Islands (with Ove Arup & Partners)
Performed study on probability of all earth movement hazards at two major coal-fired power plants in the Philippines Islands. Earth movement hazards included seismically induced hazards (strong shaking, direct rupture, liquefaction, inundation due to dam/levee failure, landslide/rock fall) tsunami, volcanically induced hazards (lava flow, lahar, pyroclastic flow, and ash fall), and water-induced hazards (landslide, sinkhole). The earth movement hazard study was performed as part of a larger probable maximum loss study based on FEMA’s HAZUS loss estimation methodology.
LNG Tank Seismic Design Risk Study
Guandong, China (with Ove Arup & Partners)
For international energy company, performed study assessing increased risk of catastrophic failure to liquid natural gas (LNG) tanks resulting from reduced design levels recommended in NFPA59A (2001). The study considered impacts of the new code changes in both the moderate seismicity zone of Guandong, China where a new plant is being designed and in generic high seismicity areas.
Onshore LNG Gasification Plant Conceptual Design and Seismic Criteria Development
Australia (with Ove Arup & Partners)
Developed seismic design criteria for LNG gasification terminal located on two islands off the coast of Australia. Performed study to developed preliminary geotechnical criteria for design.
Damietta LNG Power Plant Foundation and Jetty Seismic Analysis and Design
Damietta Port, Egypt (with Ove Arup & Partners)
Performed study to determine appropriate dynamic pile design criteria for LNG plant refrigeration units. Studies included assessment of dynamic soil properties, modeling of site-specific response to seismic loading, liquefaction triggering potential, soil-pile-structure interaction and kinematic loading analysis, and assessment of pile group interaction effects. Performed state-of-the-art probabilistic liquefaction assessment of foundation soils of proposed jetty based on modeling of site-specific response to seismic loading.
North Morecambe Terminal Liquefaction Reassessment
Barrow-in-Furness, United Kingdom (with Ove Arup & Partners)
Performed assessment of post-remediation (grading and gravel drain) liquefaction potential using site response analyses and state-of-the-art probabilistic SPT-based and CPT-based liquefaction triggering tools. Study was performed as part of development of gas sweetening plant on adjacent site.
Natural Gas, Oil and Coal Energy
Sakhalin Energy Sakhalin II LNG Project Seismic Criteria Development
Sakhalin Island, Russia (with Ove Arup & Partners)
Determined relevant seismic hazard levels based on Russian SNIP building code for temporary dry dock to be used for offshore natural gas platform construction. Performed desk study to determine appropriate damping and force reduction values to be used in assessment and design of on-shore LNG tanks. Performed desk study examining conversion of acceleration response spectra to displacement response spectra for offshore platform structure based on available knowledge and attenuation relations.
Energia Costa Azul Onshore LNG Receiving Terminal
Baja California, Mexico (with Ove Arup & Partners)
Performed multiple roles as necessary during all phases of the project from FEED design to construction. Roles included owner’s design engineer, on-site owner’s engineer and project manager in Mexico, scientific and field investigation project manager in Mexico, and construction monitor for offshore elements. Responsibilities included managing and overseeing over $5 million of scientific field investigations; performing due diligence on port and quarry contracts and permitting requirements; assisting client with facility’s federal permits; development of ITB design-build bid documentation on port and quarry facilities; assisting client in negotiation, procurement and development of caisson construction port facilities in the Port of Ensenada; performing construction quality control audits on offshore facility geologic materials and placement.
Nearshore LNG Terminal and Casting Basin Seismic Hazard Assessments
Gulf of Mexico (with Ove Arup & Partners)
Performed seismic hazard study and developed seismic criteria for offshore LNG facility based on relevant NFPA, ACI and ISO codes. Performed Hazard study based on probabilistic seismic hazard assessment and NEHRP mapping and methodology.
Ingleside, Texas (with Ove Arup & Partners)
Performed probabilistic seismic hazard study, performed liquefaction assessment, and developed seismic criteria for casting basin to be used for construction of offshore LNG facility. Analysis and recommendations of hazard levels used in design were based on US Army Corps of Engineers requirements for dams with adjustments based on limited life span of casting basin facilities.
Onshore LNG Receiving Terminal Foundation Seismic Design Criteria
Long Beach, California (with Ove Arup & Partners)
As part of tender and FEED design, performed site response analyses and developed seismic soil parameters and spring constants for soil-structure interaction finite element modeling of tank foundations in liquefiable soil. Performed peer review of finite element modeling results. Seismic soil parameters developed for native, liquefied, and improved ground conditions. Assisted in report preparation and addressing technical and licensing issues. Participated in presentation of analysis and design details to FERC review panel in order to successfully gain FERC approval for schematic design.
Extreme Event Probable Maximum Loss Study for Coal Fired Power Facilities
Philippine Islands (with Ove Arup & Partners)
Performed study on probability of all earth movement hazards at two major coal-fired power plants in the Philippines Islands. Earth movement hazards included seismically induced hazards (strong shaking, direct rupture, liquefaction, inundation due to dam/levee failure, landslide/rock fall) tsunami, volcanically induced hazards (lava flow, lahar, pyroclastic flow, and ash fall), and water-induced hazards (landslide, sinkhole). The earth movement hazard study was performed as part of a larger probable maximum loss study based on FEMA’s HAZUS loss estimation methodology.
LNG Tank Seismic Design Risk Study
Guandong, China (with Ove Arup & Partners)
For international energy company, performed study assessing increased risk of catastrophic failure to liquid natural gas (LNG) tanks resulting from reduced design levels recommended in NFPA59A (2001). The study considered impacts of the new code changes in both the moderate seismicity zone of Guandong, China where a new plant is being designed and in generic high seismicity areas.
Onshore LNG Gasification Plant Conceptual Design and Seismic Criteria Development
Australia (with Ove Arup & Partners)
Developed seismic design criteria for LNG gasification terminal located on two islands off the coast of Australia. Performed study to developed preliminary geotechnical criteria for design.
Damietta LNG Power Plant Foundation and Jetty Seismic Analysis and Design
Damietta Port, Egypt (with Ove Arup & Partners)
Performed study to determine appropriate dynamic pile design criteria for LNG plant refrigeration units. Studies included assessment of dynamic soil properties, modeling of site-specific response to seismic loading, liquefaction triggering potential, soil-pile-structure interaction and kinematic loading analysis, and assessment of pile group interaction effects. Performed state-of-the-art probabilistic liquefaction assessment of foundation soils of proposed jetty based on modeling of site-specific response to seismic loading.
North Morecambe Terminal Liquefaction Reassessment
Barrow-in-Furness, United Kingdom (with Ove Arup & Partners)
Performed assessment of post-remediation (grading and gravel drain) liquefaction potential using site response analyses and state-of-the-art probabilistic SPT-based and CPT-based liquefaction triggering tools. Study was performed as part of development of gas sweetening plant on adjacent site.
Enter the name for this tabbed section: Other Projects
Project Experience
- Utilities, Distribution and Industrial
- Transportation
- Structural
- Public Spaces and Public Art
Utilities, Distribution and Industrial
Shaheen Alumina Seismic Hazard Assessment and Design Code Development
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (with Bechtel Corporation)
For Petrofac Emirates LLC, performed probabilistic seismic hazard assessment for the Shaheen Alumina processing facility in the United Arab Emirates and developed seismic design spectra based on IBC 2009 and the Abu Dhabi Building Code.
Crystal Springs Bypass Tunnel, SFPUC
San Francisco, California (with Ove Arup & Partners)
Performed deterministic and probabilistic seismic hazard assessments and site response analysis for new water tunnel in hetch-hetchy water system founded in rock and located 1km from the San Andreas Fault. Developed seismic design criteria for tunnel length and for multiple depths. Parameters developed including PGA, PGV, PGD, strains, relative displacements. PGA was determined for P-waves, S-waves, and Rayleigh waves at depth. Directivity was incorporated into all analyses.
Industrial Facility Seismic Risk Assessment (client confidential)
Japan and Indonesia (with Ove Arup & Partners)
Performed probabilistic seismic hazard assessment and provided general guidance on natural hazards and the use of HAZUS loss estimation methodology for 3 sites in Japan and 2 sites in Indonesia.
Performed multi-hazard risk desk study for third site in Japan and assisted in developing proposed mitigation schemes.
Venezuela (with Ove Arup & Partners)
Performed seismic hazard desk study to assess feasibility of new industrial facility in seismically active area.
SFPUC Emergency Operations Center Seismic Hazard Assessment
San Francisco, California (with Ove Arup & Partners)
Performed probabilistic and deterministic seismic hazard assessments and liquefaction assessment for design and construction of a critical two story utility control center.
Transportation
Transbay Terminal Improvement Plan Seismic Assessment
San Francisco, California (with Ove Arup & Partners)
Performed probabilistic seismic hazard assessment, performed spectral matching of time histories, and developed static and seismic soil parameters for three-dimensional finite element model analyzing impact of tunnel system on adjacent structure.
Caltrain Downtown Extension Seismic Hazard Study
San Francisco, California (with Ove Arup & Partners)
Performed probabilistic and deterministic seismic hazard study for passenger rail tunnel in downtown San Francisco.
Iron Horse Trail Overcrossing Pedestrian/Bicycle Bridge Seismic Hazard Assessment
Pleasant Hill, California (with Ove Arup & Partners)
Performed probabilistic and deterministic seismic hazard assessments and liquefaction assessment for a new cable-stayed bridge to carry pedestrian/bicycle traffic over a busy boulevard to improve safety and traffic flow. Provided input on geotechnical topics in conceptual design phase.
John F. Kennedy Airport Terminal 6 Redevelopment Liquefaction Assessment for Temporary Structures
New York, New York (with Ove Arup & Partners)
As part of design of redevelopment of Terminal 6 for JetBlue Airlines, performed state-of-the-art probabilistic liquefaction assessment based on seismic hazard levels adjusted for non-standard structure design life values. Developed report to be presented to New York Port Authority discussion appropriate design hazard levels for temporary structures.
Asia Pacific Space Centre Preliminary Seismic Hazard and Launch Vibration Study
Christmas Island, Indian Ocean (with Ove Arup & Partners)
Performed study of seismic hazard and launch-related vibration hazard relevant to design of new private international rocket launch facility on coral seamount with Karstic topography and environmentally sensitive caves. Study included probabilistic seismic hazard assessment for which local background seismicity model was developed based on analysis of records from temporary seismograph stations owned by mining company, as well as IRIS and USGS records databases.
Fulton Street Transit Center Seismic Design Criteria
New York (with Ove Arup & Partners)
Provided peer review and guidance related to liquefaction and hazard level requirements for seismic design criteria for redevelopment of MTA-New York City Transit’s new hub for Lower Manhattan. Performed peer review of liquefaction assessment.
Marmaray Crossing Immersed Tube Tunnel Design Development and Liquefaction Assessment
Marmaray Crossing, Istanbul, Turkey (with Ove Arup & Partners)
As part of tender design of approximately 5.3 mile long immersed tube tunnel in highly seismic environment, performed liquefaction assessment using multiple US and Japanese Codes and Techniques for both SPT and CPT-based in-situ testing. Assisted in conceptual designs for site improvement, tunnel details, and backfill with a focus on addressing issues related to buoyancy, bearing capacity, slope stability, assuring positive stone column connections with gravel backfill, and stone column shear strength.
Tappan Zee Bridge Seismic Assessment
Tarrytown, New York (with Ove Arup & Partners)
For the New York State Thruway Authority, performed assessment of liquefaction potential using site response analyses and state-of-the-art probabilistic SPT-based liquefaction triggering tools. Provided guidance and peer review for finite element modeling of existing pile foundations. Provided peer review of geotechnical investigation as related to seismic issues.
Golden Ears Bridge Engineering Due Diligence Review
Vancouver, Canada (with Ove Arup & Partners)
Provided lending organization responsible for new bridge across the Frasier River in Vancouver Canada with technical review of design-build proposals. Areas of review included liquefaction potential and seismic hazard level assessments and design of structure assuming existence of liquefaction.
Structures
China Steel Corporation Headquarters
Kao-Hsiung, Taiwan (with Ove Arup & Partners)
Performed comparative desk study of seismic hazard assessments and code-based approaches for new skyscraper in Taiwan.
Disney Museum
San Francisco, California (with Ove Arup & Partners)
Performed probabilistic and deterministic seismic hazard assessment for site in San Francisco’s Presidio. Developed spectrally matched time histories and spring properties for finite element analysis. Assisted in interpretation of results of finite element analysis.
St. Francis Towers Seismic Hazard Assessment
Manila, The Philippines (with Ove Arup & Partners)
Performed probabilistic and deterministic seismic hazard assessments for dual condominium towers in the Philippines located within 2km of an active fault. Developed spectrally matched time histories for non-linear finite element modeling.
Seismic Assessment of Kan-Dala Business Center
Almaty, Kazakhstan (with Ove Arup & Partners)
Developed seismic hazard criteria for assessment of seismic risk to public meeting spaces/convention center in Almaty, Kazakhstan. Hazard developed was based on SNIP Russian Building Code, regional seismic tectonics, local hazard studies, and results provided by the Global Seismic Hazard Mapping Program. Review of preliminary work by the Kazakh Research and Experimental Design Institute of Earthquake Engineering and Architecture was also performed.
New Songdo City Development Co., Songdo Convention Center Seismic Hazard Study and Liquefaction Assessment
Songdo, Korea (with Ove Arup & Partners)
Performed seismic hazard study for development of an International School, the Convention Center, and a condominium high-rise structure to be located in a new city to be sited on reclaimed land on a coastal area south of Incheon, Korea. Available information on seismicity in Korea was reviewed. Probabilistic seismic hazard assessment (PSHA) was performed and likely impact of soil column on surface motions was analyzed. A probabilistic liquefaction assessment was performed based on SPT and CPT field data and results of PSHA.
Kaiser Sand Canyon Hospital
Sand Canyon, California (with Ove Arup & Partners)
Performed spectral matching on time histories provided and developed appendix on spectral matching methods for geotechnical report. Performed peer review and technical interface between Arup’s structural engineering team, the geotechnical engineers of record, and interested regulatory agencies.
California Academy of Sciences
San Francisco, California (with Ove Arup & Partners)
Developed spectrally matched time histories for 3-dimensional finite element analysis. Performed analysis of drainage for green roof system and sand infiltration tanks based on regional historical rainfall data.
Jewish Museum
San Francisco, California (with Ove Arup & Partners)
Developed spectrally matched earthquake records for finite element modeling study of new museum.
Public Space and Public Art
Hudson River Park Project
New York, New York (with Ove Arup & Partners)
Provided review of seismic criteria required by City of New York for rehabilitated piers to be used for public events.
Proyecto Monumental de la Montana Tindaya, Estudio GUADIANA, S.L.
Fuerteventura, Canary Islands (with Ove Arup & Partners)
Performed seismic hazard desk study as part of feasibility study of national monument composed of a 50mx50mx50m cubic cavern to be constructed inside Montana Tindaya. The project, conceived by the sculptor Eduardo Chillida Juantegui, would provide a place of contemplation inside the mountain.
Shaheen Alumina Seismic Hazard Assessment and Design Code Development
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (with Bechtel Corporation)
For Petrofac Emirates LLC, performed probabilistic seismic hazard assessment for the Shaheen Alumina processing facility in the United Arab Emirates and developed seismic design spectra based on IBC 2009 and the Abu Dhabi Building Code.
Crystal Springs Bypass Tunnel, SFPUC
San Francisco, California (with Ove Arup & Partners)
Performed deterministic and probabilistic seismic hazard assessments and site response analysis for new water tunnel in hetch-hetchy water system founded in rock and located 1km from the San Andreas Fault. Developed seismic design criteria for tunnel length and for multiple depths. Parameters developed including PGA, PGV, PGD, strains, relative displacements. PGA was determined for P-waves, S-waves, and Rayleigh waves at depth. Directivity was incorporated into all analyses.
Industrial Facility Seismic Risk Assessment (client confidential)
Japan and Indonesia (with Ove Arup & Partners)
Performed probabilistic seismic hazard assessment and provided general guidance on natural hazards and the use of HAZUS loss estimation methodology for 3 sites in Japan and 2 sites in Indonesia.
Performed multi-hazard risk desk study for third site in Japan and assisted in developing proposed mitigation schemes.
Venezuela (with Ove Arup & Partners)
Performed seismic hazard desk study to assess feasibility of new industrial facility in seismically active area.
SFPUC Emergency Operations Center Seismic Hazard Assessment
San Francisco, California (with Ove Arup & Partners)
Performed probabilistic and deterministic seismic hazard assessments and liquefaction assessment for design and construction of a critical two story utility control center.
Transportation
Transbay Terminal Improvement Plan Seismic Assessment
San Francisco, California (with Ove Arup & Partners)
Performed probabilistic seismic hazard assessment, performed spectral matching of time histories, and developed static and seismic soil parameters for three-dimensional finite element model analyzing impact of tunnel system on adjacent structure.
Caltrain Downtown Extension Seismic Hazard Study
San Francisco, California (with Ove Arup & Partners)
Performed probabilistic and deterministic seismic hazard study for passenger rail tunnel in downtown San Francisco.
Iron Horse Trail Overcrossing Pedestrian/Bicycle Bridge Seismic Hazard Assessment
Pleasant Hill, California (with Ove Arup & Partners)
Performed probabilistic and deterministic seismic hazard assessments and liquefaction assessment for a new cable-stayed bridge to carry pedestrian/bicycle traffic over a busy boulevard to improve safety and traffic flow. Provided input on geotechnical topics in conceptual design phase.
John F. Kennedy Airport Terminal 6 Redevelopment Liquefaction Assessment for Temporary Structures
New York, New York (with Ove Arup & Partners)
As part of design of redevelopment of Terminal 6 for JetBlue Airlines, performed state-of-the-art probabilistic liquefaction assessment based on seismic hazard levels adjusted for non-standard structure design life values. Developed report to be presented to New York Port Authority discussion appropriate design hazard levels for temporary structures.
Asia Pacific Space Centre Preliminary Seismic Hazard and Launch Vibration Study
Christmas Island, Indian Ocean (with Ove Arup & Partners)
Performed study of seismic hazard and launch-related vibration hazard relevant to design of new private international rocket launch facility on coral seamount with Karstic topography and environmentally sensitive caves. Study included probabilistic seismic hazard assessment for which local background seismicity model was developed based on analysis of records from temporary seismograph stations owned by mining company, as well as IRIS and USGS records databases.
Fulton Street Transit Center Seismic Design Criteria
New York (with Ove Arup & Partners)
Provided peer review and guidance related to liquefaction and hazard level requirements for seismic design criteria for redevelopment of MTA-New York City Transit’s new hub for Lower Manhattan. Performed peer review of liquefaction assessment.
Marmaray Crossing Immersed Tube Tunnel Design Development and Liquefaction Assessment
Marmaray Crossing, Istanbul, Turkey (with Ove Arup & Partners)
As part of tender design of approximately 5.3 mile long immersed tube tunnel in highly seismic environment, performed liquefaction assessment using multiple US and Japanese Codes and Techniques for both SPT and CPT-based in-situ testing. Assisted in conceptual designs for site improvement, tunnel details, and backfill with a focus on addressing issues related to buoyancy, bearing capacity, slope stability, assuring positive stone column connections with gravel backfill, and stone column shear strength.
Tappan Zee Bridge Seismic Assessment
Tarrytown, New York (with Ove Arup & Partners)
For the New York State Thruway Authority, performed assessment of liquefaction potential using site response analyses and state-of-the-art probabilistic SPT-based liquefaction triggering tools. Provided guidance and peer review for finite element modeling of existing pile foundations. Provided peer review of geotechnical investigation as related to seismic issues.
Golden Ears Bridge Engineering Due Diligence Review
Vancouver, Canada (with Ove Arup & Partners)
Provided lending organization responsible for new bridge across the Frasier River in Vancouver Canada with technical review of design-build proposals. Areas of review included liquefaction potential and seismic hazard level assessments and design of structure assuming existence of liquefaction.
Structures
China Steel Corporation Headquarters
Kao-Hsiung, Taiwan (with Ove Arup & Partners)
Performed comparative desk study of seismic hazard assessments and code-based approaches for new skyscraper in Taiwan.
Disney Museum
San Francisco, California (with Ove Arup & Partners)
Performed probabilistic and deterministic seismic hazard assessment for site in San Francisco’s Presidio. Developed spectrally matched time histories and spring properties for finite element analysis. Assisted in interpretation of results of finite element analysis.
St. Francis Towers Seismic Hazard Assessment
Manila, The Philippines (with Ove Arup & Partners)
Performed probabilistic and deterministic seismic hazard assessments for dual condominium towers in the Philippines located within 2km of an active fault. Developed spectrally matched time histories for non-linear finite element modeling.
Seismic Assessment of Kan-Dala Business Center
Almaty, Kazakhstan (with Ove Arup & Partners)
Developed seismic hazard criteria for assessment of seismic risk to public meeting spaces/convention center in Almaty, Kazakhstan. Hazard developed was based on SNIP Russian Building Code, regional seismic tectonics, local hazard studies, and results provided by the Global Seismic Hazard Mapping Program. Review of preliminary work by the Kazakh Research and Experimental Design Institute of Earthquake Engineering and Architecture was also performed.
New Songdo City Development Co., Songdo Convention Center Seismic Hazard Study and Liquefaction Assessment
Songdo, Korea (with Ove Arup & Partners)
Performed seismic hazard study for development of an International School, the Convention Center, and a condominium high-rise structure to be located in a new city to be sited on reclaimed land on a coastal area south of Incheon, Korea. Available information on seismicity in Korea was reviewed. Probabilistic seismic hazard assessment (PSHA) was performed and likely impact of soil column on surface motions was analyzed. A probabilistic liquefaction assessment was performed based on SPT and CPT field data and results of PSHA.
Kaiser Sand Canyon Hospital
Sand Canyon, California (with Ove Arup & Partners)
Performed spectral matching on time histories provided and developed appendix on spectral matching methods for geotechnical report. Performed peer review and technical interface between Arup’s structural engineering team, the geotechnical engineers of record, and interested regulatory agencies.
California Academy of Sciences
San Francisco, California (with Ove Arup & Partners)
Developed spectrally matched time histories for 3-dimensional finite element analysis. Performed analysis of drainage for green roof system and sand infiltration tanks based on regional historical rainfall data.
Jewish Museum
San Francisco, California (with Ove Arup & Partners)
Developed spectrally matched earthquake records for finite element modeling study of new museum.
Public Space and Public Art
Hudson River Park Project
New York, New York (with Ove Arup & Partners)
Provided review of seismic criteria required by City of New York for rehabilitated piers to be used for public events.
Proyecto Monumental de la Montana Tindaya, Estudio GUADIANA, S.L.
Fuerteventura, Canary Islands (with Ove Arup & Partners)
Performed seismic hazard desk study as part of feasibility study of national monument composed of a 50mx50mx50m cubic cavern to be constructed inside Montana Tindaya. The project, conceived by the sculptor Eduardo Chillida Juantegui, would provide a place of contemplation inside the mountain.