Spectral Analysis of Surface Waves (SASW) in Civil Engineering: A Systematic Review of Applications and Methodologies

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The Spectral Analysis of Surface Waves (SASW) method is a non-destructive geophysical seismic testing technique extensively used in civil engineering for subsurface characterization. By analyzing the dispersive properties of surface waves, SASW enables the evaluation of soil and material stiffness profiles with depth. This systematic review synthesizes peer-reviewed studies retrieved from Web of Science and Scopus, following the PRISMA framework, to assess the scope, reliability, and evolving role of SASW in modern engineering practice.

Methodological Framework and Literature Selection

A rigorous identification, screening, and eligibility assessment process was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. From an initial pool of publications, 37 high-quality studies were selected for detailed analysis. The reviewed literature reflects methodological advancements in data acquisition, signal processing, and inversion techniques, highlighting the robustness of SASW as a research and practical tool for subsurface investigations.

Geotechnical Site Characterization Applications

SASW has been widely applied in geotechnical engineering to determine shear wave velocity profiles, stratification, and dynamic soil properties. These applications support site classification, ground improvement assessment, and foundation design. The reviewed studies demonstrate that SASW offers reliable subsurface insights while minimizing disturbance, making it suitable for urban and environmentally sensitive sites.

Foundation and Structural Engineering Assessment

In foundation and structural analysis, SASW is used to evaluate stiffness degradation, detect anomalies beneath existing structures, and assess soil–structure interaction effects. The method’s ability to investigate subsurface conditions without excavation enhances its value in the assessment of aging infrastructure, retrofitting strategies, and performance monitoring under operational loads.

Seismic Analysis and Microzonation Studies

SASW plays a significant role in seismic hazard analysis and urban microzonation by providing essential dynamic soil parameters. The reviewed research highlights its effectiveness in estimating site response, resonance characteristics, and seismic vulnerability. These contributions are critical for earthquake-resilient design and regional risk mitigation planning.

Infrastructure and Specialized Engineering Applications

Beyond traditional geotechnical uses, SASW has been applied to pavement evaluation, railway track assessment, and specialized cases such as landfill characterization and historical structure analysis. These applications underscore the versatility of SASW in supporting sustainable infrastructure development, condition assessment, and maintenance planning across diverse civil engineering domains.

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#PRISMA
#SoilDynamics
#FoundationEngineering
#SeismicMicrozonation
#PavementEngineering
#RailwayInfrastructure
#UrbanGeophysics
#SustainableInfrastructure
#EngineeringGeophysics
#SubsurfaceCharacterization
#ResearchInCivilEngineering


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