Impact of Retrofitting Techniques on Seismic Resilience of Schools: Case Study in Khorramabad, Lorestan, Iran

Abstract

Iran is located in a seismically active region, which poses a significant threat of destructive earthquakes. Given the dense populations they support and their structural importance, schools demand resilience across various dimensions. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the seismic performance of schools in Khorramabad, Lorestan, Iran, by obtaining resilience curves. The research involved a thorough analysis of retrofitting options for a specific school, identified through a review of data from Lorestan province. Three retrofitting options were considered: (1) bracing, (2) friction dampers, and (3) utilization of fiber-reinforced polymers (FRP) in the columns. The structure was modeled and designed using suitable software before and after implementing the retrofitting options. Incremental dynamic analysis (IDA) was conducted using recommended ground motions (including 10 ground motions for near and far fields). Subsequently, a risk analysis of the study area was performed, and a comparison was made between damage and fragility curves under different conditions; this included an assessment of potential damage in future earthquakes. The results demonstrated the efficacy of the analysis method in evaluating the seismic performance of buildings. Last, the study highlighted the building’s response under different earthquake intensities and confirmed that the maximum capacity determined closely corresponded to findings from other nonlinear analyses. This approach was proven to be highly effective in assessing a building’s behavior and ultimate capacity in the face of earthquakes.