What are the most common structural systems for educational facilities in earthquake-prone areas?

2 Concrete Frames

Concrete frames are another common structural system for educational facilities in earthquake-prone areas. Concrete frames are similar to steel frames, but they use reinforced concrete instead of steel as the main material. Reinforced concrete is a composite of concrete and steel bars or wires, which enhance the strength and ductility of the concrete. Concrete frames have some advantages over steel frames, such as better fire resistance, sound insulation, and thermal mass. They can also be shaped into various forms and sizes, allowing for more architectural diversity. However, concrete frames also have some disadvantages, such as heavier weight, lower tensile strength, and higher brittleness. To overcome these limitations, concrete frames need to be reinforced with adequate detailing, confinement, and shear reinforcement.

3 Masonry Walls

Masonry walls are a traditional structural system for educational facilities in earthquake-prone areas. Masonry walls are composed of bricks, blocks, or stones that are bonded together by mortar, forming a solid wall that carries the load of the building. Masonry walls have some benefits, such as low cost, availability, and aesthetics. They can also provide good thermal and acoustic insulation, and fire resistance. However, masonry walls also have some challenges, such as low strength, ductility, and energy dissipation. They can easily crack, collapse, or overturn during earthquakes, causing severe damage and casualties. To improve their performance, masonry walls need to be reinforced with steel bars, ties, or mesh, and connected with other structural elements.

4 Timber Frames

Timber frames are a relatively new structural system for educational facilities in earthquake-prone areas. Timber frames are made of wood or engineered wood products, such as laminated veneer lumber (LVL) or cross-laminated timber (CLT), that are joined together by nails, screws, or connectors, forming a lightweight and flexible frame that supports the building. Timber frames have some advantages, such as high strength-to-weight ratio, ductility, resilience, and sustainability. They can also reduce the carbon footprint, enhance the indoor environment, and create a natural and warm atmosphere. However, timber frames also have some disadvantages, such as vulnerability to fire, decay, and moisture. To prevent these problems, timber frames need to be treated, protected, and designed with adequate fire resistance and durability.

5 Hybrid Systems

Hybrid systems are a combination of different structural systems for educational facilities in earthquake-prone areas. Hybrid systems aim to optimize the performance, cost, and aesthetics of the building by using the best features of each system. For example, a hybrid system may use steel frames for the main structure, concrete walls for the lateral resistance, and timber floors for the comfort and sustainability. Hybrid systems have some benefits, such as versatility, adaptability, and innovation. They can also achieve higher levels of safety, efficiency, and functionality than single systems. However, hybrid systems also have some challenges, such as complexity, compatibility, and coordination. To ensure their success, hybrid systems need to be carefully planned, designed, and integrated with each other.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?