Publication: Development of seismic vulnerability index framework for reinforced concrete buildings in Malaysia
Date
2021-03-01
Authors
Kassem, Moustafa Moufid
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Abstract
Knowledge about the number of unusable and collapsed buildings in Malaysia due to earthquake-related causes is a crucial point when planning suitable intervention strategies from a structural aspect. This study intended to develop a framework that uses the Seismic Vulnerability Index (SVI) for assessing Reinforced Concrete (RC) buildings in Malaysia. The conceptual framework aimed to enable decision-making before an earthquake occurs by improving the statistical approach that depends on assumptions and expert judgment-based decisions concerning post-earthquake initiatives. Then, an analytical approach using non-linear dynamic analysis, and non-linear static analysis in the form of an improved SVI method is proposed to quantify and estimate the evolution of damage to 30-RC buildings with different clusters. Eight parameters were modelled and distributed into three distinct classes to estimate the RC-buildings’ vulnerability indexes. The vulnerability classes were categorized according to Low-, Moderate-, and High-Earthquake Resistant Designs (ERD) subjected to Far-Field (FF) and Near-Field (NF) seismic motions. SVI values classify buildings as being in a partial to total collapse state in the case of Low-ERD under certain intensities. However, upon implementing ERD installations, it explicitly achieved good seismic capacity in both Moderate and High-ERD by mitigating the damages of structural and non-structural elements. The validation process was achieved by matching the mean damage grade, plastic hinges that indicate damaged locations and failure mechanisms via storey drift with observations of the real damage. The reference buildings were graded based on mean damage states and were found to xxxvii have moderate damage to their structural elements and moderate to heavy damage to non-structural elements. As for depicting and analysing the overall results, the results were integrated into 3D Maps in the Geographical Information System (GIS). Results show that the surveyed buildings’ vulnerability are significant, and therefore, public awareness is paramount. In conclusion, the use of the analytical SVI damage indicator can be a guide for earthquake impact assessments in Malaysia, as it helps to manage and implement strategies to mitigate seismic-related actions before an earthquake strikes.