Code-based damage assessment of existing precast industrial buildings following the February 6th, 2023 Kahramanmaraş earthquakes (Pazarcık Mw 7.7 and Elbistan Mw7.6)

In Turkey, a substantial portion of the industrial buildings consists of precast structures. Unfortunately, these buildings suffered significant damage, with some partially collapsing, during two consecutive earthquakes that occurred in Kahramanmaraş (Pazarcık Mw7.7 and Elbistan Mw7.6) on February 6, 2023. Consequently, numerous industrial facilities became unusable, leading to substantial economic losses. This article aims to identify the vulnerabilities of such buildings and assess their actual earthquake performance to prevent potential future damages. The authors collected data through field investigations conducted near the earthquake's epicenter, which were subsequently evaluated within the study. The research comprehensively examines the seismic characteristics of both earthquakes, the structural system of existing prefabricated industrial buildings in the region, and the relevant provisions outlined in the history of earthquake codes for prefabricated industrial buildings. Additionally, nonlinear finite element simulations of the heavily damaged hinged type of column-beam connections commonly employed in earthquake-prone areas are presented. The impact of manufacturing defects on the structural seismic behavior is also investigated. In the study's final stage, it is concluded that non-compliance with structural projects and relevant codes during the manufacture of connection regions in prefabricated industrial buildings is one of the primary causes of structural damage. Furthermore, it is observed that necessary measures should be implemented in these structures to enhance lateral stiffness in the roof plane, and the use of hinged column-beam joints should be avoided or restricted, especially in regions prone to earthquakes. The finite element model analysis reveals that the load-bearing capacity of the connection increases by 62% for lateral out-of-plane loading when grout mortar is applied. •The seismic characteristics of February 6th Kahramanmaraş Earthquakes were examined comprehensively.•The performance of existing prefabricated industrial buildings was listed in sections.•The observations made with performance based analytical studies were supported.•Heavily damaged hinged type of column-beam connections were modeled using ABAQUS.•The FEM model revealed that if grout mortar is not used in the joints, the seismic capacity decreased considerably.