The study “Near-Source Ground Motion From Normal Faults: Insights From the Physics-Based Numerical Simulations of the 1980 Irpinia Earthquake, Southern Italy” has been recently published in the journal “Earthquake Spectra”. This work is the result of a collaboration between RSE and Politecnico di Milano, developed within the framework of Italian Research for the Electrical System (Ricerca di Sistema) activities.

The study focuses on the analysis of ground motion in the near-source region, with particular reference to the November 23, 1980 Irpinia earthquake (MW 6.8), one of the most significant seismic events in recent Italian history.

Through advanced physics-based numerical simulations, a three-dimensional spectral element model covering an area of approximately 147 × 110 km² was developed. The model incorporates a realistic multi-segment fault rupture representation, a crustal velocity model, and the ground topography.

Despite the limited availability of observational data for this historical event, the simulations demonstrate a good capability to reproduce the main features of ground motion, as confirmed by comparison with instrumental recordings and macroseismic observations.

The results provide new insights into key aspects of near-source ground motion, including the spatial variability of permanent deformations, the amplitude and frequency content of seismic signals, directivity effects, and the polarization of pulse-like signals.

The study contributes to improving the understanding of the physical processes controlling ground motion near the seismic source, with potential implications for seismic hazard assessment, structural design, and the resilience of energy system infrastructures.

Click here to access the article.