Seismic site response zonation map

This dataset contains the seismic site-response zonation map for the Netherlands. The site-response (amplification) zonation map for the Netherlands is designed by transforming geological 3D grid cell models into five classes and an amplification factor (AF) is assigned to most of the classes. This site-response assessment, presented on a nationwide scale is important for a first identification of regions with increased seismic hazard potential, for example at locations with mining or geothermal energy activities.
The site-response zonation map enables a prediction of site-response after a local earthquake as recommended in the following. It is very important to note that lithological information from geological voxel models is based on spatial interpolation and aimed at interpretations on regional scale. As a consequence, the presented site-response zonation map is also designed for regional interpretation, and not on individual grid cell scale. Furthermore, at locations with large subsurface heterogeneity, the interpretation should be handled with care. Additional local investigations measurements should be performed at sites of interest in order to assess the site-response in detail.
For the map presented, the uncertainties to keep in mind are: first, the AF distribution along the classes, and secondly the uncertainty of the geological model used. The AF is designed to be added to an input seismic signal at a reference horizon with a shear-wave velocity of 500 m/s. This AF is class-dependent and covering only frequencies of 1-10 Hz. Furthermore, the AF does not reflect the maximum amplification that might occur within a smaller frequency band. Moreover, in the country's southern regions, a topographic effect may influence the site-response. It is important to mention that for now these areas are aggregated in Class V and require additional detailed site investigations for site-response assessment.
The AF and associated uncertainty per class are available from the NetCDF metadata.