This thesis adopts the relative back-projection method to dramatically reduce "swimming" artifacts by identifying the rupture fronts in the time window of a reference station; this led to a faster and more accurate image of the rupture processes of earthquakes. Mitigating the damage caused by earthquakes is one of the primary goals of seismology, and includes saving more people's lives by devising seismological approaches to rapidly analyze an earthquake's rupture process. The back-projection method described in this thesis can make that a reality.

Solid design and craftsmanship are a necessity for structures and infrastructures that must stand up to natural disasters on a regular basis. Continuous research developments in the engineering field are imperative for sustaining buildings against the threat of earthquakes and other natural disasters. Recent Challenges and Advances in Geotechnical Earthquake Engineering provides innovative insights into the methods of structural engineering techniques, as well as disaster management strategies. The content within this publication represents the work of rock fracturing, hazard analysis, and seismic acceleration. It is a vital reference source for civil engineers, researchers, and academicians, and covers topics centered on improving a structure's safety, stability, and resistance to seismic hazards.

Many civil engineers leave university with some knowledge of applied mechanics, geology and some soil and rock mechanics but often a limited grounding in geotechnical engineering. A good geotechnical engineer needs to appreciate the balance between theoretical principles, practical experience and the uncertainties present when dealing with the ground in its natural state. The ICE Manual of Geotechnical Engineering is intended to address this need by delivering an authoritative and comprehensive reference providing the core geotechnical engineering principles, practical techniques, and the major questions engineers should keep in mind when dealing with real-world engineering challenges - all within a consistently coherent framework. This volume tackles the principles and provides a solid grounding in the discipline. Furthermore this volume covers assessment of the ground and soil properties and issues.