Seismic Isolation Design for Achieving Post-Earthquake Functionality

Functionality is an important consideration while designing critical buildings, bridges, and industrial structures in earthquake prone regions of the world. This is necessary for minimizing post- earthquake disruption to society. Major earthquakes that have occurred every year in the world are a constant reminder that critical structures must remain functional and operational post- earthquake, so that community needs are met. Hospitals need to remain functional and operational in order to treat injured people and save lives. Bridges classified as lifeline structures also need to remain functional so that rescue and recovery operations can be performed. Code provisions (ductility based) for seismic design of structures all over the world have focused primarily on achieving “Collapse Prevention” within acceptable limits, at the expense of inflicting damage to structural, non-structural, architectural elements, and contents, resulting in loss of function.