Integrating Passive Thermal Comfort Features with Seismic Retrofitting Techniques for Nonengineered Housing in India

Abstract

The lack of seismic provisions for non‐engineered buildings in developing countries is corroborated by the high fatality rates during earthquakes and is a source of major concern. As a means for promoting seismic retrofitting among the low‐income population in India, this study investigates the integration of passive thermal comfort features with retrofitting techniques in order to provide day‐to‐day benefits in addition to the structural safety required for earthquakes. Three separate regions in India with the same level of seismic risk and differing climatic conditions are addressed in this study in order to consider the varying thermal comfort requirements within the same required level of seismic resistance. These are: Gujarat, Jammu & Kashmir, and Sikkim, which are typical of hot‐dry, composite and cold climates respectively, and are located in areas with high seismicity (Seismic zone IV by Indian seismic code standards). The development of suitable integrative techniques is not solely a structural challenge. A thorough understanding of the population and their needs, the climate and geographical landscape, and most importantly, of the previous research regarding thermal comfort and seismic retrofitting for developing countries is essential. This has been achieved through a literature review, which provides the theoretical framework and identifies which seismic and thermal comfort strategies are appropriate for which type of constructions and climates respectively. Following this, a research‐by‐design methodology is employed to formulate possible integrative solutions. The study finds that the possibilities of integrating passive thermal comfort features with seismic retrofitting for non‐engineered houses are limited. However, the few proposed integrative solutions do have the potential to improve thermal comfort inside the houses in an energy efficient manner if developed further. They are expected to be beneficial for many regions of the developing world which have similar seismic and climatic characteristics.