Seismic design and retrofitting of petrochemical facility

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Caribbean

This case concerned a state-owned petrochemical facility in the Caribbean.  In the final stages of construction, concerns emerged that the seismic design of major steel structures across the facility did not comply with contract requirements, and that those requirements themselves did not define the appropriate level of seismic risk.  The issue developed into a high-value dispute between the state and the EPC contractor, ultimately referred to International Arbitration.

For the purposes of this complex matter, I assessed the compliance of as-built structures under different seismic risk scenarios and proposed retrofit measures, and supported the preparation of expert testimony for arbitration proceedings.  This work included assessing seismic risk, developing finite element models (FEA) for steel-framed structures, reviewing the adequacy of as-built structures and preparing retrofit schemes, accounting for installed piping and equipment.