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oq-gem

Glossary for gem taxonomy

Authors: Luke Allen, Andrew Charleson, Svetlana Brzev, and Charles Scawthorn

This online Glossary explains around 400 terms contained in the GEM Building Taxonomy v 2.0 and nearly 700 images.

The terms have been listed in alphabetical and numerical order. Text description of each term is accompanied by illustrations (photos and/or drawings) where possible.

We welcome contributions in the form of photographs or images, illustrating glossary terms. If you have any questions you can also contact us at buildingtaxonomy@globalquakemodel.org


Reinforced concrete slabs are supported by beams. This includes cast-in-place slabs with beams on all sides, waffle slabs with beams, slab band system (common in Canada), one-way joist system (common in North America), and clay tile coffered reinforced concrete slabs. They are sometimes overlaid with light-weight roofing.

RC2 Canada Brzev 1

Reinforced concrete slab supported by beams, Canada (S. Brzev)

RC2 Canada Brzev 2

Reinforced concrete slab band system, Canada (S. Brzev)

RC2_Canada_Brzev_3

Reinforced concrete slab supported by beams, Canada (S. Brzev)

RC2_USA_Brzev_1

Reinforced concrete waffle slab system with beams, USA (S. Brzev)

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