FRICTION-DAMPERS FOR SEISMIC CONTROL OF BUILDINGS

A novel structural system for the aseismic design of buildings is proposed. By incorporating simple and inexpensive friction-damping devices at strategic locations in buildings, their earthquake resistance and damage control potential can be dramatically increased. During a major earthquake, a large portion of seismic energy is dissipated by the devices with no dependence on ductility, so the main structural elements remain elastic without damage. Furthermore, the new system, while assuring added safety to the occupants and reduced damage to the contents, offers the benefit of significant savings in the initial cost of construction. Shake table tests at the University of British Columbia at Vancouver, the University of California at Berkeley and the Imperial College at London have demonstrated superior performance of friction-damped buildings when compared to conventional construction.