Expert talk on hilly areas

Earthquakes and seismic loading create unique challenges for geotechnical engineers working in hilly and sloping terrain. In this session, Dr. Dhiraj Raj explores the complex interaction between slopes, soil behaviour, and structural response under seismic conditions, with a particular focus on seismic hazard considerations in India. The webinar discusses how slope-building interaction can significantly influence seismic response and why conventional approaches may underestimate the vulnerability of structures located on or near slopes. Through research findings, practical engineering insights, and advanced numerical simulations, the session highlights the importance of performance-based seismic assessment in hilly regions. The session also demonstrates the application of OPTUM G2 for pseudo-static seismic slope stability analysis. Using finite element limit analysis, the webinar showcases how engineers can evaluate slope performance under earthquake loading, identify critical failure mechanisms, and study the influence of seismic coefficients on slope stability. The discussion further compares advanced FELA approaches with conventional methods for analysing complex slope geometries and soil conditions. Topics covered: • Seismic hazard in hilly terrain • Slope-building interaction effects • Pseudo-static seismic slope stability analysis using OPTUM G2 • PGA and spectrum-based intensity measures • Record-to-record variability in seismic analysis • Crest, middle, and toe slope response differences Learn how advanced numerical analysis and geotechnical FEM approaches can improve understanding of seismic performance in coupled building-slope systems. Explore more about geotechnical FEM software and advanced analysis tools: www.optumce.com