Earthquake-prone Regions Research Articles

Comparative assessment of seismic analysis procedures: Eurocode 8 vs KTPN2‐89

This paper evaluates seismic design considerations for a typical reinforced concrete (RC) building in Albania, comparing the provisions of Eurocode 8 (EC8) and the Albanian seismic code, KTP.N2-89. The primary focus is on the design spectra, analyzing differences in site coefficients, spectral shapes, and the inclusion of near- and far-field seismic concepts in EC8. The study applies both codes to various soil types, calculating base shear demands and highlighting key discrepancies. EC8 introduces detailed soil classification using shear wave velocity (VS-30) and site factors, offering a more nuanced framework compared to KTP.N2-89’s simpler system. Base shear demands generally increase with softer soils, with EC8 Type 1 producing the highest values across all soil types due to its more conservative approach. In contrast, KTP.N2-89 often results in lower base shear values, except for very soft soils, where its kE factor amplifies seismic forces. The findings reveal limitations in KTP.N2-89, particularly its lack of comprehensive guidelines for soil effects and earthquake source characteristics. The study emphasizes the need to revise Albania’s seismic code, adopting EC8’s advanced methodologies to improve structural resilience and ensure safer designs in earthquake-prone regions.

The performance of steel fiber reinforced concrete as structural elements of a seismic resistant three-story low-cost housing using SAP 2000

Seismic activity is a looming threat in many regions around the world. Hence, pursuing low-cost housing solutions that can withstand seismic forces while remaining economically viable is critical. This research is motivated by the urgent necessity to create innovative materials and cost-effective design methodologies that can withstand the forces of devastating earthquakes. This study explores the effectiveness of steel fiber reinforced concrete (SFRC) as a structural element in a three-story low-cost housing building. SFRC incorporates small and hooked steel fibers into concrete, improving its mechanical properties, such as tensile strength, toughness, and ductility. This study aims to replace traditional reinforced concrete with SFRC in building columns and beams and assess its seismic performance using Finite Element Method (FEM) analysis conducted through SAP 2000 software. This study conducted experiments using concrete mix samples with different percentages of steel fibers (0%, 0.3%, 0.5%, and 0.7% by weight) and found that the 0.3% SFRC sample exhibited the highest compressive and flexural strength. Four models evaluated the cost-effectiveness of SFRC compared to the control sample with regular concrete. The analysis revealed that Model (3), featuring 250 x 300 mm columns with SFRC, significantly decreased concrete volume and rebar quantity. It resulted in a 13.79% reduction in structural costs compared to the original plan. Overall, the study highlights the potential of SFRC to enhance the mechanical properties of concrete and reduce costs in seismic-resistant construction projects. By incorporating SFRC, engineers can improve buildings' structural stability and performance, particularly in earthquake-prone regions.

Building earthquake resilience with clay shale: pioneering sustainable concrete solutions with eco-friendly materials

This study examines the potential of using locally sourced clay shale as an eco-friendly addition to concrete formulations, aimed at boosting both structural strength and seismic resilience in earthquake-prone regions. Optimized using the Dreux-Gorisse method, the clay shale-based concrete achieved a compressive strength of 12 MPa after seven days and 16 MPa after 28 days, meeting B25 concrete standards. Seismic testing with cyclic loading at a frequency of 1 Hz demonstrated notable ductility and deformation resistance, with a 9% increase in compressive strength compared to conventional concrete mixes. The use of clay shale also helped reduce the concrete's carbon footprint by approximately 12%, thanks to a reduced need for transported materials, making it a sustainable and cost-effective choice. These findings suggest that clay shale concrete offers a robust, resilient option for construction in seismic regions, balancing sustainability with structural reliability. Future studies should explore the material’s long-term durability and in-field performance to confirm its potential further. This study highlights the value of integrating geotechnical and seismic resilience into sustainable infrastructure, aligning with global goals to lower environmental impact and improve community safety.

Resilient seismic performance of self-centering hybrid rocking reinforced concrete wall: Numerical simulation

Resilient seismic performance of self-centering hybrid rocking reinforced concrete wall: Numerical simulation

Assessing Patient Demographics and Emergency Response Adaptation in a Primary-Level State Hospital Following the 6 February Türkiye Earthquakes

Aim: On 6 February 2023, a series of earthquakes with magnitudes of 7.8, 6.6, and 7.6 struck the south-eastern region of Türkiye within a span of 10 hours, starting from 04:00 am. These earthquakes resulted in a devastating loss of life, with casualties exceeding 50,000 across 10 provinces. The destruction caused by these earthquakes was widespread with the collapse of many buildings, including hospitals. This study aimed to assess the patient demographics and emergency response adaptation in a primary-level state hospital following the 6 February Türkiye earthquakes. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted at the Reyhanlı State Hospital, which remained largely unaffected by the earthquakes. The hospital faced challenges in providing medical care due to the loss of staff, damaged infrastructure, and limited resources. A volunteer orthopaedic surgery team, along with other medical professionals, provided treatment to the earthquake victims. The patient data was collected from the conventional record book of the operating room. Results: From 6 to 12 February 2023, a total of 111 surgeries were performed at the hospital, with 92 (%83) being earthquake-related. Orthopaedic surgeons operated on most of the patients. The most common surgeries included fasciotomies, amputations, and fracture fixations. The surgeries were performed in a time-sensitive manner, with immediate life- and extremity-saving procedures prioritized. The hospital's infrastructure challenges and the lack of digital recording systems hampered the data collection process. Conclusion: The study highlights challenges faced by a primary-level Hospital during the earthquakes. Our indings stress the importance of preparedness, infrastructure, and efficient patient records for effective emergency healthcare during natural disasters. Lessons learned can aid future plans for better emergency medical care in earthquake-prone regions.

Crisis and resilience in psychology

Crises that occur after natural disasters are real and serious issues that can cause serious depression. A crisis is a situation in which a smooth process suddenly turns into a depression with negative, dangerous consequences. Since our country is in an earthquake-prone region and has experienced earthquakes with great losses, it has a very traumatic history. The concept of crisis, which spreads over a wide area, is a phenomenon that needs to be talked about by drawing boundaries. Natural disasters cause crises, and crises cause trauma. Resilience is the most effective way to deal with natural disasters and the traumas that follow. Resilience can be considered as the ability to adapt to the adverse conditions caused by external factors causing the crisis for disaster management. Psychological resilience is defined as the ability to cope with the negative consequences that may follow a natural disaster and adaptation to a negative situation. The phenomenon of resilience is important for both the individual and the society in societies where major natural disasters such as earthquakes are experienced. This definition of psychological resilience points to an approach that leaves the individual on his/her own in the face of disaster, crisis, and trauma by placing a great responsibility on the individual. However, individuals who have been exposed to natural disasters should not be left on their own and all opportunities should be mobilised to help them. Passive exposure to the wounds caused by natural disasters decays both the individual and the society. Instead, engaging in emotional, mental, social, and artistic investments and taking part in new and multiple fields will benefit the individual and the society in order to tackle the wounds.

Environmental Sensitivity of Teacher Education Students in the Earthquake Zone

The research aimed to assess the environmental sensitivity of teacher education students within an earthquake-prone region, specifically exploring potential correlations between their environmental awareness, settlement size, educational program, and experiences related to the February 6 Earthquake. 342 students from Hatay Mustafa Kemal University Faculty of Education participated in the study, employing quantitative research methods and the “Environmental Sensitivity Questionnaire”. Data analysis involved frequency, arithmetic mean, and percentages, with the Kruskal-Wallis H test used to examine the link between students' environmental sensitivity, program of study, and settlement size, and the Mann-Whitney U test employed to assess the association between experiencing the February 6 Earthquake and environmental sensitivity. The data were analyzed using the SPSS program. The findings revealed that teacher-education students exhibited partial environmental sensitivity. Notably, students enrolled in mathematics teaching programs displayed higher environmental sensitivity than those in social studies teaching programs, while students residing in metropolitan and urban areas exhibited greater environmental awareness than their counterparts in non-metropolitan areas. Moreover, the research highlighted that teacher education students in earthquake-prone regions exhibited partial sensitivity towards air and water pollution, with lower sensitivity regarding soil pollution, population planning, and engagement in environmental initiatives.

EXAMINATION OF THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE LOCATION OF WIND PLANTS AND THE EARTHQUAKE RISK: CASE STUDY TÜRKİYE

The significance of renewable energy resources has become increasingly prominent in light of the global population growth and the inadequacy of existing energy sources. Among these resources, wind energy stands out as a highly efficient option for sustainable power generation worldwide. Türkiye, with its capacity to accommodate both onshore and offshore wind turbines, has emerged as an attractive hub in this field. Given Türkiye's favourable geographical location, wind energy holds great potential in the country. Consequently, there has been a steady rise in the number of wind power plants established for electricity generation in Türkiye, along with an increase in their installed power capacity. However, the regions hosting these wind power plants face dynamic challenges, such as the risk of earthquakes, which can jeopardize their continuous operation. This study focuses on providing a comprehensive analysis of the causes of wind turbine damage, offering statistical insights into this subject. Additionally, the study discusses the various factors influencing the selection of suitable locations for wind turbine power plants, while also exploring relevant international laws and regulations. To initiate the research, an initial step involves creating a map illustrating the existing wind turbine plant locations. The study also presents statistical data regarding the distribution of wind turbine plants in earthquake-prone regions. Subsequently, by considering the earthquake map established in Türkiye's 2018 earthquake regulation, an assessment of earthquake risks is conducted based on the existing wind turbine power plant locations. As a result, new locations characterized by low earthquake risk and high wind efficiency are proposed for future wind power plant projects.

Shake Table Tests of Traditional Timber Frame Masonry Construction System

Past earthquakes established the robustness of the vernacular timber-framed masonry construction systems in earthquake-prone regions. The post-earthquake reconnaissance studies reveal that these building systems possess excellent seismic resilience and can sustain multiple seismic events over their useable life. Such a performance is in contrast to that of many modern contemporary structures. Regardless of all the data available on the exceptional behavior of these structures in earthquakes, the robust quantitative experimental data on their seismic performance is quite limited. This paper reports a series of half-scale shake table tests on an archetypal single-room, single-story timber frame infilled with dry stack masonry. Two models, one a bare timber frame and the other a timber frame infilled with dry stack masonry were investigated in this study. Both the models were subjected to white noise base excitation for dynamic characterization whereas the timber frame with infill was also subjected to a ground motion of increasing intensity in accordance with a single ground motion record incremental dynamic analysis to investigate the seismic behavior of such structures. The dynamic properties were assessed, including natural frequency, damping ratio, mode shapes, and stiffness degradation. The frequency decreased to 30%, and the stiffness degraded to 48% for shake table motions up to PGA of 0.45g. Sensors and instrumentation were placed to capture the dynamic response in terms of peak accelerations at the sill, lintel, and roof levels. The acceleration response from the floor to the roof level is also measured and presented as acceleration amplification factors of both in-plane and out-of-plane walls. The acceleration response was more amplified for out-of-plane walls with an amplification of 250%, while a lower value of 80% was observed for in-plane walls. Experimental results reinforce that these construction systems offer effective seismic resistance and an extensive analysis helps understand the behavior of such systems under seismic loads.

The Evolution of Structural Systems in Tall Buildings: From Ancient Skyscrapers to Future Megatowers of the Future

Tall buildings have undergone significant structural evolution throughout history, driven by advancements in engineering, materials, and design concepts. The construction and operation of tall buildings pose challenges related to safety, transportation, and infrastructure. The development of seismic-resistant structural systems for tall buildings, especially in earthquake-prone regions, is a critical aspect of ensuring the safety and stability of structures during seismic events. The integration of these structural systems and design strategies is crucial for creating safe and resilient tall buildings in regions vulnerable to earthquakes. This paper focuses on the historical development of structural systems in tall buildings, from ancient skyscrapers to the design and construction of sustainable and eco-friendly innovative megatowers of the future. This review will highlight the diverse ways in which tall buildings can integrate sustainability-focused structural systems, contributing to environmental conservation and energy efficiency. Key words: Tall buildings, sustainable, energy efficient, structural systems, seismic resistant

Earthquake Analysis in Complex Shape Building Using STAAD PRO

This research delves into the seismic analysis of a G+10 storey building designed with a cross-shaped configuration. Utilizing STAAD PRO software and employing linear static analysis, various seismic parameters such as displacement, story drift, modal time period, and frequency were meticulously examined. The primary objective was to assess the seismic response of the cross-shaped structure in comparison to other configurations with an equal surface area. Results unequivocally indicate that the cross-shaped building exhibits heightened stability, showcasing superior performance in seismic conditions. This finding underscores the structural robustness of the cross-shaped configuration in earthquake-prone regions. The study also sheds light on specific characteristics of the cross-shaped building, offering valuable insights for seismic-resistant design strategies. Through a meticulous investigation focused solely on the cross-shaped structure, this research contributes to the broader understanding of earthquake analysis in complex buildings, serving as a foundation for future advancements in structural engineering.

A Review on Seismic Analysis of RCC and Steel Structures using Linear and Non-linear Static Analysis

Abstract: An earthquake can cause significant harm to various aspects, including buildings, general life, and particularly multistory structures. In India, structures constructed in earthquake-prone regions, as defined by IS 1893: 2002, must be designed to withstand the loads, stresses, and consequences of earthquakes. Several techniques are available for assessing multi-story structures in this context, such as the Response Spectrum Method, Equivalent Lateral Force Method, Time History Method, and adhering to specific code provisions. Numerous researchers have undertaken studies to analyze multi-story buildings using one or more of these methods. However, there exists still a confusion about an effective and efficient method preferred for seismic design of multi-story buildings. Among the various approaches, the seismic coefficient method and response spectrum method are the most widely used. This comparative investigation aims to review research reports that have employed the Equivalent Lateral Force Method and Response Spectrum Method to analyze multi-story buildings in earthquake-prone areas. The design response spectrum serves as the initial reference point for most established seismic design and assessment procedures. It primarily dictates the inertia forces that buildings and structures must withstand during an earthquake. This paper aims to introduce and discuss contemporary concepts regarding the creation and utilization of earthquake design response spectra. Additionally, the paper highlights the various methods of seismic analysis being investigated in the past literature. It also gives an overview of various investigations being carried out using linear and non-linear static analysis of RCC structures. Many of the ideas presented are specifically aimed at aiding engineers who work in regions with low to moderate seismic activity. The main objective is to inform engineers about modern approaches to developing response spectra. This knowledge can then be applied effectively in both analytical and design contexts when dealing with earthquake-related challenges

Integrating Renewable Energy Systems in Green Building Design

This research provides a comprehensive analysis of the historical evolution and practical implementation of seismic-resistant architectural techniques in earthquake-prone regions, with a particular focus on Japan. Through detailed case studies and advanced simulations, the study rigorously evaluates the empirical effectiveness of these strategies in mitigating earthquake-induced damage. Furthermore, the research addresses avenues for ongoing refinement in seismic-resistant design. The findings not only consolidate the practical applications of these technologies but also offer valuable insights into their future trajectories and potential research directions. This study contributes significantly to the advancement of earthquake resilience in architectural engineering.

Memory guided Aquila optimization algorithm with controlled search mechanism for seismicity analysis of earthquake prone regions

Memory guided Aquila optimization algorithm with controlled search mechanism for seismicity analysis of earthquake prone regions

Seismic performance and failure mechanism of interbedded slopes with steep rock layers

Seismic performance and failure mechanism of interbedded slopes with steep rock layers

Analisa Perilaku Stuktur Gedung Bertingkat yang Menggunakan Base-Isolation Systems

Indonesia is an earthquake-prone region, which can lead to collapse of buildings and casualties. Thus, the building must be designed to withstand earthquakes. The use of building protection systems against earthquakes other than shear walls is base isolation, according to base isolation is a protection system that reduces the effects of earthquakes by separating structures from the ground that moves during an earthquake, so as to reduce structural shifts and floor acceleration. In this study, the author developed a study from (Nurseptiani, 2020), namely by replacing the shear wall into base isolation to get a better structural response. The method used is a design analysis that aims to determine the behavior of the structure and the effectiveness of base isolation in multi-storey buildings, as well as using three-dimensional structures in the ETABS program. With the results of the reaserch, the period of the structure produced using base isolation increased by 5.565 seconds compared to fixed base and shear walls is 4.813 and 2.953 seconds. This also occurs in simple structures from 0.22 seconds to 1.017 seconds with base isolation. The resulting variety shape has a difference between the base isolation, fixed base and shear wall structures, this also happens with simple structures. The value of the base shear force generated in the base isolation structure experienced the greatest decrease of about 58.09% compared to the shear wall by only 25.88%. The deviation value between floors produced using base isolation has decreased and the value is the smallest. Based on the sample results of normal, shear and moment force values, base isolation has the smallest value, so from some of these points, it can be stated that base isolation is more effective than shear walls.

Performance and strength analysis of shear walls with vertical steel encased profiles under tensile-shear load

Performance and strength analysis of shear walls with vertical steel encased profiles under tensile-shear load

Nonlinear Dynamic Analysis of Pilotis Structures Supported by Drift-Hardening Concrete Columns.

Pilotis structures consisting of upper concrete bearing-walls and a soft first story have been well used in residential and office buildings in urban areas to primarily accommodate parking lots. In this research, drift-hardening concrete (DHC) columns developed by the authors are proposed to form the pilotis story with the aims of reducing its excessive residual drift caused by stronger earthquakes than anticipated in current seismic codes, mitigating damage degree, and enhancing resilience of the pilotis story. Nonlinear dynamic analysis was conducted to investigate the dynamic response characteristics of the wall structures supported by DHC columns. To this end, two sample six-story one-bay pilotis structures were designed following the current Japanese seismic design codes and analyzed. One sample structure is supported by ductile concrete (DC) columns, while the other is supported by DHC columns, which have the same dimensions, steel amount, and concrete strength as DC columns. Three representative ground motions were adopted for the nonlinear dynamic analysis. The analytical parameter was the amplitude of peak ground acceleration (PGA), scaled by the peak ground velocity (PGV) ranging between 12.5 cm/s and 100 cm/s with an interval of 12.5 cm/s. The analytical results have revealed that the residual drift of the pilotis story composed of DHC columns could be reduced to nearly zero under selected earthquakes scaled up to PGV = 100 cm/s, owing to not only the inherent self-centering ability of DHC columns but also the shake-down effect, which implies that the use of DHC columns can greatly enhance resilience of pilotis structures under strong earthquake inputs and promote its application in the buildings located in strong earthquake-prone regions. The maximum inter-story shear forces (MISFs) along the building height of the two models are also compared.

Fluvial geomorphic factors affecting liquefaction-induced lateral spreading

Fluvial geomorphic factors affecting liquefaction-induced lateral spreading

Post-Earthquake Strengthening of RC Coupling Beams with GFRP Wrapping: Experimental Investigation.

This research aims to address a post-earthquake urgent strengthening measure to enhance the residual seismic capacity of earthquake-damaged reinforced concrete wall structures with coupling beams. The study consists of a series of tests on half-scale prototype coupling beams with various detailing options, including confined with reduced confinement, partially confined, and unconfined bundles, under cyclic loading conditions. The methodology employed involved subjecting the specimens to displacement-controlled reversal tests, and carefully monitoring their response using strain gauges and potentiometers. The main results obtained reveal that GFRP wrapping significantly enhances the seismic performance of earthquake-damaged coupling beams, even in cases where specimens experienced strength loss and main reinforcement rupture. The strengthened beams exhibit commendable ductility, maintaining high levels of deformation capacity, and satisfying the requirements of relevant seismic design codes. The significance of the study lies in providing valuable insights into the behavior and performance of damaged coupling beams and assessing the effectiveness of GFRP wrapping as a rapid and practical post-earthquake strengthening technique. The findings can be particularly useful for developing urgent post-earthquake strengthening strategies for high-rise buildings with structural walls. The method may be particularly useful for mitigating potential further damage in aftershocks and eventual collapse. In conclusion, this study represents a significant advancement in understanding the post-earthquake behaviors of coupling beams and provides valuable guidance for practitioners in making informed decisions regarding post-earthquake strengthening projects. The findings contribute to the overall safety and resilience of structures in earthquake-prone regions.