A STUDY ON TSUNAMI FORCE ACTING ON BUILDINGS AND THE EFFECTS OF BUILDINGS WITH OPENINGS ON TSUNAMI LOADS

Abstract

 The effect of structure geometry on tsunami wave load is investigated by hydraulic model experiment. The results reveal that pilotis configuration characterized by absence of walls at the first story can be effective to reduce the tsunami force. It is because, run-up tsunami can pass easily through the pilotis. Tsunami force acting on pilotis increases when drifting objects infill openings of pilotis. Thus, the application of counter measure for damage due to drifting objects is important. Moreover, it is observed that shock pressure distribution on front of structure is decided by frontal form of building but not rear form. Furthermore, tsunami force acting on building is affected by scale and position of openings. Influence of positioning of openings is important to reduce tsunami force than that of scale.