CONFINED MASONRY

An alternative construction technology, using the same construction materials, is CONFINED MASONRY construction. Confined masonry is a construction system where the masonry walls are built first, and the concrete columns and beams are poured in afterwards to enclose (confine) the wall. It has typically performed well in past earthquakes worldwide, when built according to code requirements. Its satisfactory earthquake performance is due to the joint action of masonry walls and their confining elements... Given the universal popularity of masonry and the widespread availability of cement, reinforcing steel, and aggregate, confined masonry is a simple solution. By making some inexpensive and easy changes to traditional construction materials and procedures, the risk of casualties can be significantly reduced. Very few cases of collapse have been reported in past earthquakes worldwide... The Confined Masonry Network is a project of an international consortium of individuals and..