Reinforcement specifications of reinforced concrete earthquake resistant structures also satisfy the detailing requirements applying to conventional structures as during their lifespan they are rarely subjected to earthquakes.
For a structure to be earthquake resistant it must firstly abide by the regulations regarding conventional structures. However, its construction demands greater diligence because during the critical moment of the seismic event the structure will be tested to its strength limits thus proving the need for meticulous application of all the reinforced concrete rules. Beyond, therefore, the normal construction rules, other rules must be satisfied as well mainly regarding the transverse reinforcement usually consisting of dense polymorphic stirrups.
The basic specifications of antiseismic reinforcement are four:
(1) The concrete cover of the reinforcement,
(2) The minimum distance between reinforcement bars,
(3) The gradual bending of rebars
(4) The antiseismic stirrups.