Structural Vulnerability Analysis and Seismic Influence in Self-Built Buildings

This research analyzes the structural vulnerability and seismic influence of self-built buildings in the Los Constructores Human Settlement in Nuevo Chimbote, with the aim of identifying the factors that increase structural risk in the event of seismic events. An applied methodology was used that integrated technical inspections, geotechnical tests, and structural modeling using ETABS, evaluating both soil conditions and the dynamic behavior of representative dwellings. Field and laboratory results determined that the foundation soil corresponds to a rigid S2 type soil, which rules out failures due to bearing capacity and concentrates vulnerability in the structure. The vulnerability assessment revealed a medium level of vulnerability, mainly associated with geometric deficiencies and the absence of adequate confinement elements. The structural analysis confirmed that insufficient lateral stiffness in the X direction is the critical mechanism that triggers high drifts and fragile structural behavior under seismic demand. It is concluded that the self-built buildings in the study area present a significant risk in the event of earthquakes, due to the low density of walls and the lack of technical criteria during their construction, which highlights the need to apply specific structural reinforcement strategies.