2.1.4. Basic principles of seismic design

Legend: • Deformations when the resultant force is Fy • Deformations when the resultant force is Fx • Cracks

• Vertical load direction

Figure 6 Understanding of earthquake forces on a basic masonry structure, Source – Author

2.1.4 Basic Principles for seismic resistant design

From the above failure mechanics, there are some basic principles for seismic resistant design, which are as follows (IAEE, 2004):

1. The structure should not collapse immediately, hence the materials used should not be brittle. Brittle materials can be made ductile by adding ductile materials for example adding wood members in an adobe structure. The structure must have the ability to deform to a certain extent. 2. Walls, roofs, and other elements should be effectively tied together so that during the event of an earthquake, the whole structure acts together and prevents separation. 3. The built structure should be well connected to a good foundation and the earth, making it act together during an earthquake.