Proposed research title: Seismic performance of multiple low-damage drift-sensitive non-structural elements
The aftermath of historical earthquakes reveals inconsistency in performance between structures and Non-Structural Elements (NSEs). While structures often exhibited satisfactory behaviour during seismic events, NSEs frequently incurred extensive damage, resulting in substantial economic losses. This has highlighted the need for a better understanding and improvement of NSE performance. Extensive research has been undertaken to enhance the seismic resilience of NSEs, particularly in the development of drift-sensitive components such as internal partition walls, precast concrete panels with innovative connections, and glazed curtain walls with seismic frames.
However, a crucial gap remains in our understanding of how these components interact with each other and with structural systems during earthquakes. To address this gap, Rajesh’s research is carried out to experimentally examine the interaction of drift-sensitive NSEs with low-damage connections under quasi-static reverse cyclic loading and validate the applicability of integrated low-damage connection systems in real earthquake scenarios through full-scale shaking table tests. Additionally, numerical models will be developed to simulate the behaviour of multiple drift-sensitive NSEs and calibrate the accuracy of these models with experimental results. The research will finally aim to identify ways to improve low-damage connection detailing to ensure improved performance of combined drift-sensitive non-structural elements in future earthquakes.
Supervisors:
Professor Rajesh Dhakal
Professor Timothy Sullivan
Start date: 2023
Proposed end date: 2026
