Seismic Vulnerability Index Assessment Framework of Rc Structures

This book represents a significant step toward a new contribution in the process of developing the seismic vulnerability index. This is accomplished by releasing or reducing the role of the rapid visual screening that is created by the opinions and decisions of experts, which depend on observations made while investigating the vulnerability damages caused by earthquakes. Alternatively, the computational analytical technique is preferable since it can be effective in determining the seismic vulnerability index before the occurrence of an earthquake by modeling the most affected influencing parameters that regulate the building performance. In addition, the seismic vulnerability index is supported by the vulnerability curves, which describe the probability of damages and are used to estimate the economic damage grade for each building which is the topic of inquiry. In the end, this helps to establish a clear vision and sort of recommendations for engineers and specialists to follow inorder to take into consideration certain indices and factors before designing any specific structure. Because of this, the simplified work is utilized to manage and put into action measures that will protect against the effects of seismic events before an earthquake really occurs. In addition to this benefit, the work that has been done is of significant assistance to the authorities that are accountable for the restoration of the preexisting buildings and the cultural heritages.

Dr. Moustafa Moufid Kassem is currently working as an Assistant Professor at School of Civil Engineering of University Sains Malaysia. Dr Moustafa research focuses on the structural vulnerability of RC buildings and urban areas exposed to natural hazards, specifically earthquakes. More recently, he has expanded his focus to include the seismic vulnerability interaction between the structures and infrastructures in the context of physical vulnerability. In addition, his research includes the use of probabilistic and statistical tools for modelling of extreme loads on structures related to risk assessment, seismic hazard, structural analysis, numerical simulation, and modelling. He is recognized as among professionals’ engineers with Associate Membership qualification from American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), and Associate Membership qualification from Institution of Civil Engineering (ICE). Dr Moustafa was the first who developed a new standard seismic design code for bridges inMalaysia to be updated in Malaysia National Annex. He has published 2-book and more than 40 reputable ISI/Scopus research papers in peer reviewed journals in the field of structural and earthquake engineering, and 8 copyrights in Malaysia.

Dr. Fadzli Mohamed Nazri research interest on risk assessment, seismic hazard, structural analysis, numerical stimulation and modelling. On top of this, his research has given him a deeper understanding and desire to learn more on earthquake engineering. Currently, he is an Associate Professor of Structural and Earthquake Engineering in the School of Civil Engineering at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM).  He has published 8 books, more than 100 reputable peer reviewed journal in the field of structures and infrastructures related to the earthquake engineering, book chapters and codes/guidelines with the Department of Standard Malaysia. He holds a grants at the National and at the International level related for the application in earthquakeresearch areas.