Modeling methodology of seismic risk scenarios in Managua, Nicaragua

Abstract

The research methodology for seismic risk scenarios modeling in Managua, Nicaragua was carried out by the CENTRAL AMERICA SEISMIC RISK REDUCTION PROJECT (RESIS II) in phase II under the auspices of the center for disaster prevention in Central America (CEPREDENAC) of which the National University of Engineering (UNI) is part. The aforementioned research presents an analysis of the results of actual sismic risk, tectonic and spectral acceleration (PGA) expected in Central America in particular Managua, Nicaragua. A compilation of information is presented as well as examples of the results obtained in the field taken directly from homes in a neighborhood of Managua. Thus, an extrapolation was reached based an data obtained from the property Register in Managua. From a sample of typical homes a classification or typology for each building system was established which was applied to the Nonlinear Method of Analysis of Static Structures (PUSHOVER). Thus, an analysis of the capacity of the structure, relevant to demand, was obtained an therefore, the point of performance which represents the Maximum Structural Displacement to be expected during any given earthquake, reflecting weak points and degree of vulnerability. Finally, a guide to the use of computers was presented using software called Seismic Loss Estimation using a Logic Tree Approach (SELENA). This is designed for research application and to establish a new methodology for Seismic Risk Modeling in Managua.

Keywords: Vulnerability, disaster prevention, spectral acceleration, nonlinear method.

DOI: 10.5377/nexo.v23i1.34

Nexo: Revista Científica Vol. 23, No. 01, pp.09-17/May 2010