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Janani Iyer
Independent Researcher
India
Abstract
Seismic vulnerability of multi‐storey reinforced concrete (RC) buildings necessitates effective retrofitting strategies to enhance ductility and strength, thereby reducing collapse risk. This manuscript reviews techniques available up to 2015, evaluates performance via a statistical analysis of case studies, and identifies research gaps. A comparative table summarizes experimental and field data on retrofitting efficacy. The methodology involves systematic literature screening, extraction of key parameters, and quantitative evaluation. Results indicate that external steel bracing and fiber‐reinforced polymer (FRP) jacketing yield average strength gains of 35–60%, while base isolation techniques provide drift reductions up to 70%. Yet limitations in long‐term performance data and model validation persist. Research gaps include cost–benefit analyses under varied soil conditions and behavior under near‐fault pulse loading. Conclusions highlight best practices and recommend future investigations into hybrid systems and post‐installation monitoring. Ten references (≤2015) are provided.
Keywords
Seismic retrofitting; reinforced concrete; external steel bracing; FRP jacketing; base isolation
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