Poroelastic spectral element for wave propagation and parameter identification in multi-layer systems

This contribution deals with the use of Biot's theory of propagation of elastic waves in a fluid-saturated porous solid in conjunction with the computationally efficient spectral element technique as a means for forward analysis of the dynamic behavior of multi-layer systems consisting of both one- and two-phase material layers. Details of the mathematical formulation and verification of an axi-symmetric semi-infinite spectral element for a fully saturated porous medium are presented. The spatial domain of the element in the vertical direction is assumed to extend to infinity. In the radial direction it extends to a finite distance. In the last part of this contribution an example is presented of the use of the developed element for parameter identification of pavement layers via the use of falling weight deflectometer test.