Earthquake Resistance

It is common fact that earth structures have two weaknesses in addition to their quite many advantages. These weaknesses are their poor resistance to water and earthquake effects. This study has been conducted in order to determine the point achieved in earthquake resistance issues and how our standards may be developed. Data are accessed using literature survey method; three different earth construction techniques by “adobe blocks”, “rammed earth wall” and “compressed earth blocks” are studied under the main titles material properties, building structure and geometric form, which are effective in earthquake resistance. It is observed that the Turkish Standards contain adobe material and construction technique, describing only cement and straw as additives, and perpendicular cornered structures as building forms. However, studies indicate that buildings with circular form and/or chamfered corners are much more resistant to earthquake loads. In addition, according to mechanical resistance gypsum-stabilized adobe is more sufficient for use. The study states that timber should be preferred for supporting the basic structural system just as in the past and in the contemporary concept of sustainability. Within this context, the outcome is that the existing Turkish standards need some revisions. The conclusion part of the study puts the criteria and parameters that should be incorporated in the revisions.