Using Simplified Method for Seismic Evaluation of Masonry Buildings Based on Observations in Recent Earthquakes

摘要

This paper deals with a simplified analytical method for seismic evaluation of the masonry buildings. This method is based on compatibility of the structures with equivalent frame approach and is established upon the simple equilibrium laws in structural components. The objective of this paper is to illustrate the application of this method for seismic evaluation of masonry buildings as a simple and however a pertinent approach for analytical studies. Suggested simplified method is generated based on nonlinear static analysis of the equivalent-frame model of masonry walls that is calibrated with observation of the damaged buildings in the past earthquakes. Thus, a group of masonry buildings that were damaged in the recent earthquakes were selected and studied. Seismic behavior of the selected buildings was evaluated by simplified method. The finite element model of URM components of the existing buildings was provided and nonlinear static analysis was performed. Consequently, the analytical results were compared with the observed damage in the real buildings, e.g. crack patterns, failure modes, damage intensity and so forth. The results of this study showed that the simplified method has adequate compatibility with the damaged buildings in the past earthquakes in hence of crack patterns in the walls and damage area in building components. Also, this study confirmed that the suggested method can be used for seismic evaluation of the masonry buildings.