EFFECTIVENESS OF VISCOUS DAMPING SYSTEM IN ENHANCING SEISMIC PERFORMANCE: CASE STUDY IN ISLAMABAD

With the escalating seismic risks in Islamabad, enhancing the earthquake resilience of existingbuildings is becoming increasingly vital. This study delves into the efficacy of viscous dampers as aretrofitting strategy, focusing on a 10-story structure located in Gulberg Greens, Islamabad. Although thebenefits of viscous dampers are well recognized, there remains a gap in research specific to theirimplementation in the seismic context and architectural norms of Islamabad. This study seeks to fill thisvoid by employing numerical modeling to evaluate how viscous dampers can decrease seismicvulnerabilities in the selected building. A detailed numerical model of the building is constructed withviscous dampers incorporated into diagonal braces. The study thoroughly examines the seismic responsesmeasuring displacements, accelerations, and in-ternal forces of the building both with and withoutdampers. The results of this comparative analysis highlight the significant role of viscous dampers inreducing seismic loads and improving the overall structural performance. By providing essential insightsinto the practical use of viscous dampers for seismic retrofitting in Islamabad, this research aims to guideengineers and inform policy decisions, thereby fostering more robust building practices and enhancingpublic safety in regions susceptible to earthquakes.