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Nonlinear Pseudostatic Analysis of Seismic Responses to Differentially Interconnected Structures in Aggregate Masonry Structures in a High-Seismic-Risk

Description: 

In seismic risk studies, the vulnerability of dwellings is analyzed by the behavior of isolated buildings, although in densely populated cities buildings are usually displayed in aggregate form. Previous studies in historical centers of unreinforced masonry dwellings, show the importance of considering interconnected behavior of aggregate structures to analyze the damage caused by dynamic loads acting on complexes. Costa Rica is located in a high seismic hazard area where there are often clustered partially grouted reinforced concrete block masonry buildings. The purpose of this work is to analyze the seismic behavior of the most common types found in San José, Costa Rica, especially when comparing the different inter-dwelling connections that usually exist in structural aggregates with respect to the response of isolated structures.

Nonlinear pseudostatic analysis was performed using macroelement modelling. This approach enables us to investigate the seismic behavior of aggregate masonry structures at a very low computational cost. To study the applicability of the proposed model for partially grouted reinforced concrete block masonry, studies are carried out considering an isolated structure. Then, identical structures will be added in a row using four approaches in the connections between adjacent buildings. Each of these modelled connections represents a constructive reality in the urban area. The results show that the responses to these typologies differ considerably when considered isolated or aggregate. In addition, the seismic capacity of the structure within the aggregate is different depending on its position. Furthermore, important differences in resistance and failure mechanisms are observed when diverse types of connections between dwellings are considered. This study enables the establishment of the importance of connections in aggregate buildings in areas with high seismic risk.

Session: Numerical Modeling in Seismology: Developments and Applications [Poster]

Type: Poster

Date: 4/20/2023

Presentation Time: 08:00 AM (local time)

Presenting Author: María Belen Benito Oterino

Student Presenter: No

Invited Presentation: 

Authors