Abstract:
This paper introduces a technically feasible and economically affordable PP-band
(polypropylene bands) retrofitting for low earthquake resistant masonry structures
in developing countries. Results of the basic material tests and shaking table tests
on building models show that the PP-band retrofitting technique can enhance
safety of both existing and new masonry buildings even in worst case scenario of
earthquake ground motion like JMA 7 seismic intensity. Therefore, proposed
method can be one of the optimum solutions for promoting safer building
construction in developing countries and can contribute earthquake disaster
mitigation in the future.
