The August 17, 1999, Kocaeli (Turkey) earthquake — damage to structures

The 1975 Turkish code provisions are first reviewed to provide the background for design and detailing of structures prior to the earthquake. The performance of reinforced concrete and masonry structures is described indicating many of the deficiencies in design, detailing, and construction execution. The behaviour of precast concrete structures, steel structures, and industrial facilities is also presented. The provisions of the 1997 Turkish building code are summarized and a description of new construction provides evidence of both excellent and poor construction practice. Some examples of retrofitting of damaged structures soon after the earthquake are also presented.Key words: seismic design, earthquake, Kocaeli, structures, codes, concrete, precast concrete.