Advances in Seismic Strengthening Materials and Techniques

Abstract

Seismic strengthening of reinforced concrete (RC) members is a method of improving their existing capacity to withstand seismic forces. The process typically includes strengthening of RC structural members such beams, columns, slabs, footings, beam-column junctions, etc. to improve the axial, flexure, and shear capacity. Experiences during the recent earthquakes and changes in Indian Standards made it essential to carry out structural audit of buildings. The buildings, which do not comply with the recent Code provisions have to be reconstructed or to be strengthened to achieve the desired capacity level. Reconstruction of such buildings will consume time and money. In addition, evacuation of such buildings for reconstruction is a difficult task. In this paper an attempt has been made to focus on the seismic strengthening of structural members of RC buildings which are designed to only gravity loads or the structures designed prior to release of new building Codes. This paper covers a brief introduction of conventional methods of strengthening followed by an introduction of advanced FRP composite materials and techniques of retrofitting for existing RC buildings. Finally, it is concluded that the advanced FRP composite materials and recent innovative methods can more advantageously used for seismic strengthening of RC buildings.