Seismic Performance Evaluation And Retrofitting Of Timber-Masonry Composite Structures In Sagaing City, Myanmar

Abstract

This research was conducted to evaluate the seismic performance of timber-masonry composite structures commonly found in the Sagaing region of Myanmar, and to provide a sustainable retrofitting method that can also be applied to similar buildings in other areas to enhance their resilience against earthquakes.

In this study, shaking table tests were conducted to observe and compare the seismic responses of timber-masonry mixed structures. Three 1:4 scale house models with a curing period of 14 days were constructed: a non-retrofitted model, a model with tire straps, and a model with the addition of silicone rubber to simulate the properties of tire rubber, with tensile strength scaled down according to similitude law. Additionally, the study included material strength tests of mortar mix designs and rubber strength tests to ensure the proper use of these materials in the scale models according to similitude law and scaling factors.