Implementation of low-damage concrete wall buildings and detailing for deformation compatibility

Abstract

Recent earthquakes in New Zealand have resulted in a significant change to structural design practice. The difficulty in repairing damaged earthquake buildings and the expectations of building owners and occupants have resulted in a surge in seismic resilient construction implementing low-damage structural systems. Examples of recently implemented buildings with post-tensioned rocking walls are presented. The key details in these buildings are discussed, including consideration to displacement compatibility between components. Ongoing research is focused on improving the detailing for system interactions with a 2-storey low-damage concrete wall building soon to be tested at Tongji University as part of a joint ILEEQuakeCoRE research project.