This paper presents an extensive investigation into the influence of key mechanica] and geometrical parameters on horizontal impedance of square foundations resting on or embedded in a two-layer soil deposit. The parameters investigated are the ratio of shear-wave velocities. the thickness of the top layer, the depth of embedment and the degree of contact between the footing-sidewall with backfill-soil. The results are presented in the form of simple and versatile dimensionless graphs, which should prove to be useful in understanding the steady-state harmonic response of square foundations in layered soils due to horizontal excitation. The investigation was conducted using a rigorous boundary element algorithm incorporating isoparametric boundary eleinents. Higher order quadratic elements were used since they can model the wavy nature of the dynamic problem investigated more accurately.
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