Performance of Building Structures During the October 15, 2006 Hawaii Earthquake

Abstract eng:
This paper presents salient observations from a comprehensive site inspection program to determine the nature and extent of damage to hundreds of building structures affected by the magnitude 6.7 October 15, 2006 Hawaii Earthquake. Structural damage was identified at a limited number of buildings and consisted of classical shear cracking of short (captive) columns; failure of concrete beam/truss supports; shifting/cracking of foundation elements in low-rise wood-frame structures; cracking/displacement of concrete masonry block; shifting/partial collapse of unreinforced cement rubble masonry elements; and isolated failures of retaining wall anchors. Nonstructural damage was common and consisted of damage to suspended ceiling systems; damage to concrete masonry elements such as infill walls and column covers; minor cracking/spalling of concrete; and cosmetic damage to brittle wall finishes. Isolated structural and nonstructural damage resulting from soil failure/settlement was also observed. The observations indicate that structural damage typically relates to well known deficiencies in structural systems. Nonstructural damage was consistent with expectations given intensity of ground shaking.

• Export as: BibTeX | MARC | MARCXML | DC | EndNote | NLM | RefWorks
• Add to your basket