Seismic Reinforcement of Infrastructure: Lessons from Catastrophic Earthquakes in Japan

Masanori Hamada draws expertise gained throughout his four-decade career to assess the damage caused by notable earthquakes in Japan and explains how remedial design for existing structures can be used to strengthen critical infrastructure to minimize future damage and protect life. This book introduces practical methods of design and construction of critical built facilities to withstand strong ground shaking in regions of high seismic intensity. It reviews the damage caused by three notable earthquakes in Japan – the 1923 Kanto, 1995 Kobe and 2011 East Japan earthquakes – and presents detailed case histories of earthquake remediation design for existing structures. It addresses the vulnerability of critical infrastructure and low strength of residential houses and explains how such design can be used to minimize loss of life in future disasters. Throughout, the author provides detailed images to illustrate the case studies and offers practical guidance on construction methods for seismic reinforcement of civil engineering and architectural structures and industrial facilities. This includes the improvement of soil, foundations, sea walls, bridges and related structures, dams and embankments, and inground structures. It also addresses liquefaction and ground displacement, as well as measures against tsunamis and earthquake surface faults. This information will enable readers to implement remedial design works on various structures to improve their seismic resistance and safety against earthquakes. This practical guide for students and practitioners provides vital information that will enable them to design strong and safe built facilities to withstand strong ground shaking in regions of high seismic intensity.