Gomes, Maria IdáliaLopes, MárioBrito, Jorge de2012-04-092012-04-092011-03GOMES, Maria Idália; LOPES, Mário; BRITO, Jorge de – Seismic resistance of earth construction in Portugal. Engineering Structures. ISSN 0141-0296. Vol. 33, N.º 3 (2011), pp. 932-941.0141-0296http://hdl.handle.net/10400.21/1389This paper presents an assessment of the potential seismic performance of new earth construction in Portugal. Results of a parametric study on a properly designed rammed earth construction, considering several strengthening solutions, are presented and discussed. It is concluded that single storey houses can have acceptable seismic performance even in high seismicity areas, provided that the structure is adequately strengthened by reinforced concrete columns and beams. Improvement of the characteristics of the structural material (earth) may be necessary to reduce damage.engRammed earthSeismic behaviourStress analysisjournal article10.1016/j.engstruct.2010.12.014