Evaluating Earthquake Stability of Solar Module Soundproofing Structure by 3D Numerical Analysis

Abstract

In this study, dynamic numerical analysis was conducted on the existing sound barrier wall structure and the recently developed double-sided solar-module-integrated sound barrier wall structure using the finite-difference method for numerical modeling. A seismic safety evaluation was performed based on a series of numerical analysis results. Both structures were modeled using a 3D modeling technique with FLAC 3D to account for differences in lateral stiffness. For seismic considerations, the Pohang seismic wave was selected to represent short-period earthquakes in line with Korea’s seismic characteristics. Additionally, the Hachinohe seismic wave was chosen to simulate long-period earthquakes and consider the effects of the seismic period. To calculate the input seismic waves based on the ground response, a site response analysis was conducted for a site designated for demonstrating a double-sided solar module-integrated sound barrier wall structure in Korea. The analysis reveals that the existing structure maintains overall structural integrity and ensures the safety of solar modules even in an earthquake with a return period of 2400 years. However, for a solar module-integrated sound barrier wall structure, stresses exceeding the compressive strength of the solar module occur in earthquakes with a return period exceeding 1000 years, necessitating additional design and reinforcement for preparation.