Seismic detailing, a compromised principal for seismic design in Malaysia

Abstract

The main aim of seismic design is to estimate seismic induced actions on structural components and ensure that the seismic resistance systems can cater such actions safely. This has been achieved through either force based concept, practiced in conventional building codes, or performance based seismic design approaches that have been implanted in modern seismic codes. Either of aforementioned methods requires specific structural detailings in order to comply with the expected structural safety levels. Seismic detailing imposes limitaions on the size, shape and reinforcement ratio of concrete beams, columns, shear walls, etc. This study is intended to bring forward some of the important seismic detailings which are neglected in the current construction of buildings in Malaysia. It is shown in this paper that compromise on such important details leads to lower structural performance level even if the seismic actions have been considered in the design. It is also concluded that, a structure which is not designed for seismic actions but has been detailed properly can reach to a significantly safer performance level.