Seismic Retrofitting of Indonesian Masonry Using Bamboo Strips: An Experimental Study

Unreinforced masonry (UM) is well known as a vulnerable structure against earthquakes. However, it remains popular structural system for low-rise residential housing in many high-seismicity areas, particularly developing regions due to its low cost and easy construction. In the present study, retrofitting strategy using locally available material, bamboo strips, was proposed. addition fast-growing rate, tensile strength of considered high, nearly comparable steel counterpart. A series experimental tests were performed this including test, mortar flexural diagonal compressive shear test on assemblages, in-plane pushover wall specimens without with reinforcement. The retrofitted different volumes reinforcement also considered. results show that application reinforcement, at proper volume, significantly increases ultimate ductility wall. Such indicate brittle failure UM structures can be avoided by means retrofitting.