Lessons on building design from the 22 February 2011 Christchurch earthquake

摘要

This paper summarises some key observations made after the 22 February 2011 (Christchurch) earthquake from a reconnaissance mission conducted by the author on behalf of the Australian Earthquake Engineering Society (AEES), and from other investigators. It is an updated version of a keynote paper given at the AEES annual conference in November 2011. It highlights the damage observed in reinforced concrete buildings and the effects of liquefaction. The author reflects on the adequacy of Australia's existing seismic design philosophy after reporting on the effect of a level 6.3 magnitude shallow earthquake at close range to the CBD of Christchurch.