Study of Earthquake Effects on Structures and Mitigation Measures: A Literature Review

Abstract

Earthquake is the phenomenon of sudden release of built-up energy due to the tectonic plate’s movement induces tremors along the lithospheric surface of Earth in the form of waves called seismic wave. Soil liquefaction, structural instability, surface faults and uplifts, triggering landslides and tsunami are some of its causes. These induce changes in the terrain of the concerned areas. Earthquake is commonly of four types, namely tectonic, collapse, volcanic and explosion and are classified based on cause of origin, depth of focus and intensity. The effects produced by action of earthquake on structures can be reduced by following certain measures such as verifying structure of the terrain and history of seismic activity, analyzing seismic performance of structure, design verification and utilization of available preventive and corrective techniques. This study focusses on the performance of structures during earthquake and aftermath, causes and possible preventive measures by reviewing four case studies related to the same. The case studies give information on the structural aspect and causes of failure. The paper emphases the importance of seismic consideration, methodical analysis, mitigation and incorporation of the same into designing strategies.