Seismic Retrofitting of Structures

Many exsisting reinforced concrete structures in present world are inadequate for earthquakes. Recent earthquakes which occered during last decade have indicated that major damage occured was not directly due to action of earthquake but due to poor performence of structures during earthquakes. It is recognized that the most effective method of reducing the risk is seismic retrofitting. In recent years, there is significant improvement of retrofitting techniques. This study highlights the principals of assesing and retrofitting of structures against seismic events. Some of these methods were practically implemented and procedures are illutrated using case study of four storey RC building for moderate earthquake. Finite Element Method was used to investigate the performence of the building during earthquake and to check the behavoir of the structure after applying retrofitting techniques. The methods such as steel and concrete jacketing and application of fibre reinforced polymer (FRP) composites are discussed to improve the load bearing capacity of individual structural elements. Various methods such as shear walls, shear core which can be use to improve overall stability are discussed

Keywords:

Earthquake , Reinforced concrete , Retrofitting , FEM analysis