Vibration Reduction Using Wave Barrier: Model Test and Theoretical Analysis

In this study, Boit wave theory and Snell’s law were used to deduce the transmission coefficients of waves in saturated sandy soil passing through elastic barriers. The theoretical equations were verified using previously published results and experimental data. At the same time, a series of indoor model tests was used to investigate the vibration reduction of an in-filled barrier under vertical excitation. The vibration reduction effect of the barrier is evaluated by measuring vibration amplitude at a measuring point, in either the presence or absence of a barrier. The effects of barrier geometry and material properties on the vibration reduction effect were systematically studied. Our experimental results show that a barrier can reduce the vibration amplitude of the protected area. Concrete barriers and foam barriers have different vibration reduction mechanisms, and enlargement will occur at the rear of the concrete barrier. Additionally, a new type of tooth-shaped vibration reduction barrier is proposed. The experimental results show that this barrier can effectively reduce vibration.