Diagnosis of Seismic Vulnerability in Residential Buildings in the Parroquias Pedro Carbo and Rocafuerte, Guayaquil, Applying the FEMA P-154 Methodology

Abstract

This study evaluates the seismic vulnerability of buildings in Guayaquil, a city located on the Pacific Ring of Fire and therefore prone to earthquakes. Using the FEMA P-154 method, 168 buildings in the urban parishes of Pedro Carbo and Rocafuerte were inspected. Most of the structures evaluated (91%) were moment-resisting concrete frames. Older buildings, built before the implementation of modern seismic codes, showed higher vulnerability. The parameters considered included construction material, height, age, structural configuration, soil condition and maintenance. Buildings with S values between 0.3 and 0.7 were found to have a high probability of severe damage. The most vulnerable buildings were the Hotel Patrimonial, Hotel Manso Boutique and Hotel Perla Central. Solutions such as the use of carbon fiber, column jacketing and improved structural connections were proposed to mitigate these risks. Most of the buildings present high seismic vulnerability, with "El Gran Pasaje" being the most vulnerable. It is crucial to perform detailed inspections and reinforce old structures to reduce seismic risks in Guayaquil.