• Structural Engineering and Mechanics
• /
• v.47 no.4
• /
• pp.471-493
• /
• 2013

This paper presents a framework for seismic damage evaluation for Algerian buildings adapted from HAZUS approach (Hazard-United States). Capacity and fragility curves were adapted to fit the Algerian building typologies (Reinforced Concrete structures, Confined or Non-Confined Masonry, etc). For prediction purposes, it aims to estimate the damages and potential losses that may be generated by a given earthquake in a prone area or country. Its efficiency is validated by comparing the estimated and observed damages in Boumerd$\grave{e}$s city, in the aftermath of Boumerd$\grave{e}$s earthquake (Algeria: May $21^{st}$ 2003; $M_w$ = 6.8). For this purpose, observed damages reported for almost 3,700 buildings are compared to the theoretical predictions obtained under two distinct modelling of the seismic hazard. In one hand, the site response spectrum is built according to real accelerometric records obtained during the main shock. In the other hand, the effective Algerian seismic code response spectrum (RPA 99) in use by the time of the earthquake is considered; it required the prior fitting of Boumerd$\grave{e}$s site PGA (Peak Ground Acceleration) provided by Ambraseys' attenuation relationship.

• Earthquakes and Structures
• /
• v.5 no.5
• /
• pp.571-588
• /
• 2013

Many of the current buildings in Algeria were built in the past without any consideration to the requirements of the seismic code. Among these buildings, there are a large number of individual houses built in the 1980's by their owners. They are Reinforced Concrete (RC) frame structures with unreinforced hollow masonry infill walls. This buildings type experienced major damage in the 2003 (Algeria) earthquake, generated by deficiencies in the structural system. In the present study, special attention is placed upon examining the vulnerability of RC frame houses. Their situation and their general features are investigated. Observing their seismic behavior, structural deficiencies are identified. The seismic vulnerability of this type of buildings depends on several factors, such as; structural system, plan and vertical configuration, materials and workmanship. The results of the vulnerability assessment of a group of RC frame houses are presented. Using a method based on the European Macroseismic Scale EMS-98 definitions, presented in previous studies, distribution of damage is obtained.

• Earthquakes and Structures
• /
• v.22 no.1
• /
• pp.83-94
• /
• 2022

In recent years, some studies have identified and quantified factors that can increase or decrease the seismic vulnerability of buildings. These modifier factors, related to the building characteristics and condition, are taken into account in the vulnerability assessment, by means of a numerical estimation resulting from the quantification of these modifiers through vulnerability indexes. However, views have differed on the definition and the quantification of modifiers. In this study, modifier parameters and scores of the Risk-UE Level 1 method are adjusted based on the Algerian seismic code recommendations and the reviews proposed in the literature. The adjusted modifiers and scores are applied to reinforced concrete (RC) buildings in Boumerdes city, in order to assess probable seismic damage. Comparison between estimated damage and observed damage caused by the 2003 Boumerdes earthquake is done, with the objective to (i) validate the model involving influence of the modifier parameters on the seismic vulnerability, and (ii) to define the relationship between modifiers and damage. This research may help planners in improving seismic regulations and reducing vulnerability of existing buildings.

• Earthquakes and Structures
• /
• v.11 no.2
• /
• pp.371-386
• /
• 2016

During the last decades, many destructive earthquakes occurred in Algeria, particularly in the northern part of the country (Chlef (1980), Constantine (1985), Tipaza (1989), Mascara (1994), Ain-Benian (1996), Ain Temouchent (1999), Beni Ourtilane (2000), and recently $Boumerd{\acute{e}}s$ (2003), causing enormous losses in human lives, buildings and equipments. In order to reduce this risk and avoid serious damages to the strategic existing buildings, the authorities of the country, aware of this risk and in order to have the necessary elements that let them to know and estimate the potential losses in advance, with an acceptable error, and to take the necessary countermeasures, decided to invest into seismic upgrade, strengthening and retrofitting of those buildings. To do so, seismic vulnerability study of this category of buildings has been considered. Structural analysis is performed based on the site investigation (inspection of the building, collecting data, materials characteristics, general conditions of the building, etc.), and existing drawings (architectural plans, structural design, etc.). The aim of these seismic vulnerability studies is to develop guidelines and a methodology for rehabilitation of existing buildings. This paper presents the methodology, based on non linear and seismic analysis of existing buildings, followed in this study and summarizes the vulnerability assessment and strengthening of one of the strategic buildings according to the new Algerian code RPA 99/version 2003. As a direct application of this methodology, both, static equivalent method and non linear dynamic analysis, of composite concrete masonry existing building in the city of "CONSTANTINE", located in the east side of ALGERIA, are presented in this paper.