Final answer:
Retrofit techniques for discontinuous wall/brace involve methods to enhance the seismic resilience of a building's structural elements that do not span the entire height or width. Strategies include adding steel braces, reinforced concrete, installing shear walls, or using FRP. The technique selection depends on the building's construction, layout, and desired level of seismic resilience.
Step-by-step explanation:
Retrofit techniques for discontinuous wall/brace refer to methods used to strengthen and upgrade existing building structures to improve their seismic performance. These techniques are crucial in regions prone to earthquakes. Discontinuous braces or walls are structural elements that do not span the entire height or width of a structure, which can lead to weak points and a higher risk of failure during seismic events.
There are various retrofitting strategies that can be employed to address this issue, such as adding steel braces, reinforced concrete walls, or installing shear walls. In some cases, existing walls may be strengthened using fiber-reinforced polymers (FRP) or other advanced materials. These materials increase the ductility and load-bearing capacity of the structural elements. Additionally, base isolation systems and damper devices can be introduced to absorb and dissipate seismic energy, further protecting the structure from earthquake-induced forces.
The choice of retrofit technique depends on several factors, including the original construction materials, the layout of the building, and the level of seismic resilience desired. Moreover, the impact on the building's function and the occupants' safety during and after the retrofit must be considered. Professional assessment by a structural engineer is critical to determine the most appropriate retrofit solutions for a given building.