Comparative analysis of two strengthening solutions for the structural rehabilitation of a historical masonry building

Abstract

The paper presents a comparative analysis based on the Finite Element Method (FEM) for a masonry building located in Iasi, the North-Eastern side of Romania. This specific region is known to be found in a seismic area having a design peak ground acceleration of 0.25g. The building was assessed as being in the 1st seismic risk class, according to the Romanian norms, with a high probability of collapse in case of future earthquakes. Being a historical monument, the structural strengthening solutions are very limited. The study consists of modal and seismic analyses for the masonry structure. A comparison of the advantages and disadvantages of two approaches of structural rehabilitation solutions is done. The structural strengthening solution “A” consists of the addition of reinforced concrete thin wall elements, while the other - called solution “B” - consists of an interior steel profile skeleton mechanically and chemically connected to the adjacent masonry walls.