Seismic strengthening of Reinforced Concrete Structures using External Lateral Post Tensioning

Abstract

The constructions of buildings before the 1970s where not in coherence with the seismic design or any type of seismic codes hence the buildings have to be investigated and do the necessary strengthening to withstand the seismic effect. Those vulnerabilities of structures which has added forth and raised cognizance for seismic Strengthening needs. Design codes now consist of seismic provisions, and those buildings which are constructed in the future are earthquake-resistant structures. Surveys after earthquakes have been analysed to interpret the collapsed structures to study and learn the possible failure causes and mechanisms. The most destructive natural hazards is earthquake. A seismic event may cause a huge loss of property as well as life. It is estimated that around 10000 people are killed every year due to calamity. This, in turn, results in a huge annual economic loss. Hence the construction industry takes critical steps to prevent and avoid the collapse as well as reduce damages caused to the structures. The method of externally applied post tensioning of tendons (EPT) is a powerful method of strengthening and repair of structure which are in existence. The technique of EPT can be used in all types of framing i.e.; to concrete buildings, structural steel buildings and wood structures. It’s a unique method of strengthening in which the strength of an existing structure is increased for its stability and also reduces the deflection in an existing structure which have been through an earthquake damage.