It is imperative for structural engineers to learn how to confront the seismic wave of kinetic energy an earthquake releases on buildings. Because of its frequent earthquakes, Japan has established three different types of advanced earthquake-proof structures: earthquake-resistant structures, seismically isolated structures, and controlled-response structures.
Earthquake-resistant structures
No structure is entirely immune to earthquakes. The goal of earthquake-resistant construction is to erect structures that withstand seismic activity better than conventional ones. When built to code, earthquake-resistant structures are designed to withstand the most massive earthquake likely to occur at their location, and also minimize the loss of life.
Earthquake-resistant structures absorb seismic impact through structural elements such as columns, beams and braces. These structural elements must be both strong and elastic—stiff enough to absorb the kinetic energy and also have the right deformation performance.
To Be Continued
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