Shake Table Evaluation of Low-Cost Strengthening Technique for Unreinforced Brick Masonry Columns

Earthquakes are a common phenomenon throughout the world and many of the world s most populated regions are located in the areas of high seismicity. Researchers in the past have been focused on developing techniques to protect infrastructure against any impending disaster. However much of the research has been focused solely on strength, whereas both strength improvement and economy shall be considered when designing for repair with certain emphasis on ductility and toughness. The presented research work focuses on developing a new low-cost strengthening technique used for unreinforced brick masonry column. The objective of the research is to develop a low-cost, easily applicable solution using locally available resources for economically deprived localities, so that the residents with little guidance can adopt the technique to better protect themselves against earthquakes. This technique uses Polyester Thread and a Strong Bonding Tape. Strengthened specimens of unreinforced masonry columns were experimentally evaluated for their dynamic performance using shake table. Presented research includes details of technique, manufacturing and application of strengthening strips, material test and the dynamic experimental performance evaluation. It was found that the proposed technique exhibit s encouraging results as the specimens failed at about 9% higher peak ground acceleration and showed 22% reduction in sway.