Soil testing: a critical analysis in the framework of EC8 and OPCM 3274

Abstract

The Italian Code OPCM 3274, published in 2003, represents the introduction of Eurocodes approaches in Italy. In particular, the Italian code recognizes the importance of geological, morphological and geotechnical conditions in definition of seismic motion. However, whereas the Eurocode 8 acts in the context of Eurocodes, the Italian Code introduces some features not in agreement with the other Italian Codes. The recent publication of “Norme Tecniche per le Costruzioni” in 2005 partially overcomes this problem, since among other things soil testing is not discussed. In the paper the annexes 2 and 4 of Italian Code OPCM 3274 will be analysed, in particular with respect soil testing.