Assessing Seismic Vulnerability Methods for RC-Frame Buildings Pre- and Post-Earthquake

Mabor Achol Samuel, Ergang Xiong (), Mahmood Haris, Beco Chenadaire Lekeufack, Yupeng Xie and Yufei Han
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Mabor Achol Samuel: School of Civil Engineering, Chang’an University, 75 Chang’an Road, Xi’an 710061, China
Ergang Xiong: School of Civil Engineering, Chang’an University, 75 Chang’an Road, Xi’an 710061, China
Mahmood Haris: School of Civil Engineering, Chang’an University, 75 Chang’an Road, Xi’an 710061, China
Beco Chenadaire Lekeufack: School of Civil Engineering, Chang’an University, 75 Chang’an Road, Xi’an 710061, China
Yupeng Xie: School of Civil Engineering, Chang’an University, 75 Chang’an Road, Xi’an 710061, China
Yufei Han: School of Civil Engineering, Chang’an University, 75 Chang’an Road, Xi’an 710061, China

Sustainability, 2024, vol. 16, issue 23, 1-27

Abstract: The seismic vulnerability of reinforced concrete (RC) buildings has been an important issue, especially in earthquake-prone regions with limited seismic design codes such as South Sudan. Improving the seismic performance of reinforced concrete buildings is critical for maintaining structural functionality under normal service loads and for rapid recovery after natural disasters such as earthquakes. This research aims to thoroughly assess the methods used to evaluate the seismic vulnerability of RC frame structures in pre- and post-earthquake scenarios. The primary objective is to provide a comprehensive framework that integrates empirical, analytical, and experimental methods, categorizing existing assessment methods and proposing improvements for resource-constrained environments. However, empirical methods have always used historical earthquake data to estimate potential damage. In contrast, analytical methods have used computational tools such as fragility curves to assess the probability of damage at different seismic intensities. Additionally, experimental methods, such as shaking table tests and pseudo-dynamic analyses, have validated theoretical predictions and provided insights into structural behavior under simulated conditions. Furthermore, key findings highlight critical vulnerabilities in RC buildings, quantify damage probabilities, and compare the strengths and limitations of different assessment methods. However, challenges such as limited data availability, computational limitations, and difficulties replicating actual conditions in test setups highlight areas for improvement. By addressing these challenges, the review provides recommendations for future studies, including integrating advanced computational and regional hazard characterization methods, improving experimental methods to enhance the accuracy of vulnerability assessments, and ultimately supporting the design of more resilient RC structures and increasing disaster preparedness.

Keywords: South Sudan; damage; post-earthquake; mitigation strategies; seismic risk; empirical method; analytical method; earthquake (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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