Project Research Objectives
The knowledge created in this project will be embodied in a Seismic Retrofit Manual, aimed to be a companion technical guidelines to the current NZSEE document titled “Assessment and Improvement of the Structural Performance of Buildings”. Dissemination of research findings will be achieved through practitioner workshops on “Seismic Retrofit Strategies and Solutions for Existing Buildings: Implementation for New Zealand”. See Events & Education for the schedule of the seminars and workshops, to be held in main centers in New Zealand. Lastly, the Seismic Retrofit Manual will be used within undergraduate and post-graduate structural engineering courses at both University of Auckland and University of Canterbury.
The major aims of the proposed research program are:
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To develop rational and economical approaches, methodology and practical implementation guidelines for seismic rehabilitation (retrofit) of substandard multi-storey buildings;
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To evaluate the cost-effectiveness of proposed alternative solutions from a probabilistic life-cycle perspective, accounting for capital outlay for retrofit implementation, plus operation, maintenance, and insurance costs;
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To implement solutions developed within the framework of New Zealand Standards;
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To provide the structural design community with a retrofit design manual having comprehensive guidelines for daily practice.
It is envisioned that the knowledge uptake of the seismic retrofit solutions will provide national benefit through improved community resilience and greater readiness, as seismically retrofitted multi-storey buildings will be safer to occupy during and after a major earthquake. Economic benefit will primarily accrue through prevention of damage to multi-storey buildings and social benefit will result from lives saved. The intended research value chain, from this research programme to the New Zealand public is as shown below:
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