Basic Principle for Seismic Design of Building: Match structural and non-structural element

Match structural and non-structural element

If deformation-sensitive non-structural partition walls and facade elements (e.g. of masonry) are incorporated into a horizontally soft structure (e.g. a frame structure) without using joints, substantial damage may develop even for relatively weak earthquakes.

Experience shows that in such cases a building must sometimes be demolished, even though the structure suffered no substantial damage. A modern earthquake resistant design must therefore match the stiffness of the structure and the deformation capacity of the non-structural partition walls and facade elements.

The skillful selection and combination of structural and non-structural elements can prevent damages,

even for relatively strong earthquakes.