An Investigation on Seismic Resistance of Reinforced Concrete Industrial Chimneys

There are a very limited number of case studies investigating the response of reinforced concrete chimneys subjected to strong ground motions. On August 17, 1999 Izmit earthquake, collapse of a 115 m (377 ft) reinforced concrete chimney in Turkey was a very rare experience. This study investigates the cause of failure. The seismic demands imposed on the collapsed chimney and a similar survived chimney at the same site was calculated using the ground motions recorded at a nearby station. Structural capacities of the inspected chimneys were compared with the seismic demand. Flexural capacity of the collapsed chimney was exceeded at the duct region. This prediction matches with the inspections after the earthquake. In addition to low ductility and inadequate capacity due to a large duct; splice failure, insufficient concrete cover, lack of confinement were the other significant factors potentially involved in the failure.