Mechanical behaviour of different type of shear band connections being used in reconstruction housing in Nepal

Masonry structures are common in most of the under developed and developing countries in South-East Asia and Nepal is one of those nations which suffered from tremendous loss during earthquake in 2015. These types of structures are strengthened using various traditional and modern techniques, but the sustainability of the approach is obtained when local building culture is taken into consideration. The use of shear bands in masonry structures has been implemented in different nations for several centuries. It is also recommended by Government of Nepal (GoN) through design catalogues for the reconstruction of earthquake resistant buildings. These techniques proved to enhance the seismic performance of the structure but the influence of using different materials and of their configuration in term of dissipation of energy are not quantified. This research work focuses on an experimental approach to determine the mechanical behaviour of different materials (concrete, timber, or bamboo) when used as shear bands. Significant differences were highlighted in the seismic performance behaviour and energy dissipation of shear bands according to the materials, the contact surface areas and the junctions between elements. These results are analyzed in light of the substantial differences in material and labour costs at local levels in each earthquake-affected district. This article covers the experimental research conducted on shear bands and its links with on-site reconstruction activities.