The article investigates the interaction between soil cushion–based geotechnical seismic isolation, the foundation, and the superstructure with the aim of improving the reliability and stability of buildings located in seismically hazardous regions. The main objective of the study is the numerical modeling of the seismic reliability of buildings equipped with geotechnical seismic isolation in the form of soil cushions, as well as the probabilistic assessment of foundation deformation growth and the dynamic response of the structure under earthquakes of a given intensity. The research methodology includes theoretical analysis, numerical modeling using the finite element method implemented in PLAXIS 2D, interpretation of the obtained results, and reliability assessment based on probabilistic methods that account for statistical heterogeneity and random effects. The performance of soil cushion–based seismic isolation systems made of sand, gravel, and sand reinforced with a geogrid layer was analyzed. Reliability indicators related to foundation settlement and the probabilities of exceeding allowable accelerations at the foundation level and at the top of the building were determined. The results show that the application of geotechnical seismic isolation (GSI) leads to a reduction of horizontal accelerations by approximately 16% at both the foundation base and the top of the structure. Probabilistic analysis indicates that the probability of exceeding the allowable acceleration at the top of the building decreases from 27% to 7.84%, while the reliability index increases to βat = 1.42 (a 73% improvement). These findings confirm the high efficiency of soil cushion–based geotechnical seismic isolation and demonstrate its potential for practical application as an affordable, reliable, and adaptable solution for reducing seismic risk in engineering practice.

This paper examines ways to improve the reliability and operational efficiency of the Astana Reservoir hydraulic structures through reconstruction and modernization. The reservoir, commissioned in 1970, is a key facility for water supply to Astana and irrigation, and its earth dam has a total length of 1,154 m and a maximum height of 32 m. The study is based on the 2023 dam safety declaration and the 2025 verification report on overall stability and seepage strength. Numerical analyses were performed in PLAXIS 2D using the finite element method, the Mohr–Coulomb model, and a strength-reduction approach for five representative cross-sections. The assessment compared the existing condition with two reconstruction scenarios: installation of an anti-filtration screen, and installation of an anti-filtration screen combined with a cement grout curtain. The results showed that, despite a generally satisfactory visual condition, the existing dam configuration has unsafe seepage behavior and critical local instability in the most unfavorable section. Reconstruction measures significantly increased stability coefficients, reduced seepage gradients and velocities, and ensured filtration strength. The paper concludes that the most effective strategy is an integrated program combining anti-seepage reconstruction, renewal of nonfunctional monitoring systems, and digitalized water metering and operational control for long-term dam safety and management efficiency.

This work discusses seismic isolation technologies and analyses the concept of geotechnical seismic isolation (GSI) system, which is characterized by new principles of operation, using geomaterial with modified properties to reduce inertial seismic loads on buildings and structures. The aim of the study is to develop a geotechnical seismic isolation system in the form of vertical barriers, with different geometrical characteristics, using rubber-soil mixture (RSM). The novelty of the work consists in determination of effective constructive and technical solutions of vertical seismic barriers from RSM, which are characterized by reliability in providing seismic isolation of construction objects. Soil and superstructure interactions are modeled in Plaxis software, using the Northridge earthquake accelerogram. The results confirm the positive impact of using RSM as an effective material for GSI vertical barriers. The present numerical and experimental results show that the GSI system using RSM can significantly reduce the seismic hazard. The results of computational-experimental modeling will become a research, analytical and design basis for the development of new ways to ensure earthquake resistance of construction objects.

This paper discusses the concept of geotechnical seismic isolation (GSI) systems, characterized by new principles of action, to reduce seismic loads on buildings. The advantages and disadvantages of GSIs and their environmental and economic reliability are analyzed. The aim of the study is to develop a geotechnical seismic isolation system in the form of vertical barriers, using a rubber–soil mixture (RSM). The novelty of the work lies in the definition of effective structural and technical solutions of vertical seismic barriers made of RSM, characterized by reliability in providing seismic isolation. The ground and superstructure interactions are modeled in PLAXIS 2D software from 2021, using the finite element method, using the accelerogram of the Kobe and Northridge earthquakes. The results confirm the positive impact of using an RSM as an effective GSI geometrical. The results show that the GSI system using an RSM reduces horizontal accelerations by 60%. Significant acceleration reductions of 40–60% are also observed when the thickness and depth of GSI seismic barriers are increased. The results of the study contribute to the substantiation of methodology and scientific and technical efficiency of geotechnical seismic isolation as an economically favorable design alternative to the traditional seismic isolation system.

Construction in densely built urban areas, especially on artificial fill and highly compressible soils, requires effective methods for improving foundation performance. One of the most promising solutions is soil reinforcement using rigid inclusions; however, unified design and construction approaches remain insufficiently developed. This study proposes a model for reinforcing raft foundation bases with vertical rigid displacement elements by integrating geotechnical, structural, and probabilistic methods. The proposed model allows prediction and control of foundation settlement through the equivalent deformation modulus of the reinforced soil and the stiffness of the improved base, determined by the spacing and number of reinforcing elements. The reliability of the system was assessed using Monte Carlo, FORM, and SORM methods, which enabled determination of the reliability index and the most probable failure point. The results demonstrate that the proposed reinforcement technology can reduce foundation settlement, improve reliability, lower construction costs, and shorten construction time compared with conventional soil improvement techniques. The developed approach may serve as a basis for the design and reliability assessment of reinforced foundation systems in civil engineering.