Damage mechanisms of masonry structures: an observation after 19 November Erzurum-Köprüköy Earthquake

Abstract

On November 21, 2021, a 5.1 magnitude earthquake occurred with its epicenter in Erzurum-Köprüköy. In the eastern part of our country, most of the building stock in rural areas and certain parts of city center is made up of masonry structures. Most of the masonry structures consist of rubble stone walls with very low tensile strength. These load bearing elements, which are exposed to out-of-plane and in-plane displacements due to earthquakes, can be easily damaged due to their low tensile strength and poor manufacturing. In this study, the damage mechanisms of the masonry structures in the villages of Alaca, Kayabaşı, Marifet, and Sarıtaş have been reported. As a result of field studies, damages are quite prevalent due to inadequate connections between load-bearing walls and roof. Additionally, the weak connection between the leaves of load-bearing walls and lack of connection in the junctions of the walls have contributed to the damages. he observed damages can be generally classified as the quality of workmanship/construction, inadequate material characteristics, weak load bearing walls, lack of proper connections, failure of unconfined or high gable walls, heavy earth roof. Many of the damaged structures have not adhered to regulatory recommendations and are buildings that did not receive engineering services.