This book presents the findings of a detailed study to explore the
behavior of architectural glazing systems during and after an earthquake
and to develop design proposals that will mitigate or even eliminate the
damage inflicted on these systems. The seismic behavior of common types
of architectural glazing systems are investigated and causes of damage
to each system, identified. Furthermore, depending on the geometrical
and structural characteristics, the ultimate horizontal load capacity of
glass curtain wall systems is defined based on the stability of the
glass components. Detailed attention is devoted to the incorporation of
advanced connection devices between the structure of the building and
the building envelope system in order to minimize the damage to glazed
components. An innovative new connection device is introduced that
results in a delicate and functional system easily incorporated into
different architectural glazing systems, including those demanding
maximum transparency.