Seismic strengthening of adobe-mudbrick houses

Publication Type:
Thesis
Issue Date:
2006
Full metadata record
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY This thesis presents the research and development of a low-cost, low-tech reinforcement system to improve the earthquake resistance of adobe mud brick houses. The outcome of this research project is a reinforcement system which can be readily implemented by rural homeowners in developing countries using locally available resources (materials, tools and skills), without the need for ongoing external support. The proposed reinforcement system incorporates bamboo poles placed vertically against the walls, and connected with through-wall string ties, and strands of wire running horizontally. A continuous timber ring beam is placed on top of the walls. The system can be used for new-build constructions, as well as for the retrofit-strengthening of existing dwellings. The system has the potential to substantially and sustainably reduce the vulnerability of traditional adobe houses around the world.
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