Implementation of Innovative Retrofitting Methods after the 2023 Turkiye Earthquakes

Abstract

<p>Two sequential earthquakes on February 6th, 2023, with moment magnitudes of 7.8 and 7.5, have devastated southeast Turkey, affecting more than 11 cities. Field reconnaissance revealed that the disaster not only affected urban areas but also resulted in substantial damage to office-type buildings and industrial zones, causing economic losses and hindering the region's recovery. In this paper, the most commonly observed damages in office buildings and industrial facilities and their underlying causes are discussed. Innovative retrofitting suggestions are provided to enhance the seismic performance of such buildings, including dampers and special anchors for connection details. Additionally, some of the ongoing or recently completed innovative retrofitting methods, such as damper retrofit for industrial and office buildings in Turkiye, are presented.</p>