Shaking table tests on strengthening of masonry structures against earthquake hazard

Turkey and neighborhood countries like Greece and Iran are situated on an active earthquake region. Masonry type structures are very common on these countries, especially on the rural areas. During the last earthquakes, several masonry type houses were collapsed, causing loss of life and property. Strengthening methods of masonry houses were discussed in this study. The paper summarizes the results of a experimental programme carried out on models, scaled 1/10, of one-storey masonry buildings. First specimen tested was the reference specimen and used for comparison purposes. Other specimens contained several strengthening strategies. A total of 9 specimens were tested. The results allow to assess the efficiency of the various strengthening techniques employed.