Investigation of Industrial Structure Performances in the Hatay and Gaziantep Provinces During the Türkiye Earthquakes on February 6, 2023

Abstract

The seismic events of magnitudes 7.7 and 7.6 that occurred in the Pazarcik and Elbistan districts of Kahramanmaras, respectively, resulted in a disastrous aftermath characterized by a substantial loss of life, injuries affecting a multitude of individuals, and extensive structural failures. The present investigation encompasses the comprehensive assessments carried out by research team pertaining to industrial structures in the wake of these catastrophic seismic events. These evaluations were centered on various categories of structures, including liquid storage tanks, silos designed for the storage of grain-like materials, prefabricated reinforced concrete structures, and low-rise steel industrial buildings. Wall buckling damage caused by the impulsive and convective effects of the fluid has been detected in liquid storage tanks. Additionally, one of the tanks at the oil storage facility has toppled on account of inadequate anchoring. Maize silos, displaying variations in design such as columnsupported and ground-supported configurations, displayed noticeable structural damage at their base connections. Additionally, the internal pressure generated on the silo walls during the seismic event led to structural rupture, causing the discharge of grain-like agricultural commodities. Various types of damage were also determined in precast structures. Inadequate connections between columns and beams, plastic hinges in columns, and collapse of infill walls are examples of such damage. The significance of connections in low-rise steel structures was also demonstrated in this earthquake. Furthermore, one contributing factor to structural damage is the significant discrepancy in stiffness between different orientations of such structures. The study clarifies both the manifestations of structural damages and their underlying causative factors related to strong ground motion, while also delineating recommended precautionary measures.