Title:
Cracking in Concrete Structures During the August 17,1999 Earthquake in Turkey
Author(s):
M. Saatcioglu
Publication:
Symposium Paper
Volume:
204
Issue:
Appears on pages(s):
261-276
Keywords:
concrete structures; cracking; earthquakes; earthquake
engineering; Kocaeli earthquake; natural disasters; reinforced
concrete design; seismic design
DOI:
10.14359/10824
Date:
8/1/2001
Abstract:
A reconnaissance visit was conducted to Turkey shortly after the August 17, 1999 Earthquake to investigate the performance of concrete structures. The dominant form of construction in the area was reinforced concrete frames, infilled with masonry walls. Extensive cracking and damage was observed in most structures located in the disaster area. This paper presents an overview of the types of cracking that can be expected after a seismic activity, as well as those observed after the August 17, 1999 Earthquake in Turkey. Causes of seismic damage are discussed with examples. A brief review of the seismological aspects of the earthquake and the overall performance of reinforced concrete buildings are provided.