Non-linear Dynamic Finite Element Analysis of Adobe Masonry Structures with Various Roof Diaphragm Configurations

Abstract

This paper deals with the assessment of adobe structures using non-linear dynamic Finite Element (FE) analysis. Numerical simulation of adobe masonry follows a continuum approach and is based on brittle fracture concepts that are expressed through a damaged plasticity constitutive law. The selection of appropriate modelling parameters is hereby discussed. Spatial FE models representing a traditional single-storey dwelling, before and after the implementation of certain strengthening interventions which modify the roof diaphragm configuration, are developed. The FE models are subjected to time history analyses using a real time accelerogram from a past earthquake. Comparisons among the structures' seismic responses are made in terms of the predicted damage distribution, displacement capacity and overall lateral resistance. Useful conclusions regarding the effect that different roof diaphragm configurations may pose on the dynamic behavior of adobe structures are derived. Finally, critical issues that future research should address in order to enable the efficient computational analysis of earthen structures are identified.

Quantitative Contribution of Timber Ring Beams in the Dynamic Response of Adobe Masonry Structures

“…The research by Brignola et al [48] indicates that the actual tensile strength is approximately 0.05 MPa, thereby providing evidence for a higher baseline in tensile capacity for such materials. Table 2 analytically presents the mechanical properties of the materials employed in the analysis [49,50]. In investigating the mechanical response of adobe blocks under various stress conditions, the stress-strain relationships for both compression and tension were characterized using polynomial expressions as proposed by Illampas and Parisi [39,40] and Lourenço and Caporale [41,42], respectively.…”

“…The research by Brignola et al [48] indicates that the actual tensile strength is approximately 0.05 MPa, thereby providing evidence for a higher baseline in tensile capacity for such materials. Table 2 analytically presents the mechanical properties of the materials employed in the analysis [49,50]. Modal analysis was initially performed to obtain the fundamental periods and the mode shapes of the vibration.…”

A review of local construction practices applied on unreinforced adobe buildings in South America

“…As such, adobe buildings usually feature several structural deficiencies that make them highly vulnerable to seismic actions (Kuruscu et al, 2014), (Güney et al, 2016), (Chieffo et al, 2021). Thus, it is crucial to put in the field retrofitting interventions aimed at making them safer and mitigating their seismic risk (Illampas et al, 2015;Tarque et al, 2014;Tarque et al, 2012). From this perspective, it is essential to point out that, although reinforcement techniques have been addressed by several studies in the literature (Vargas-Neumann et al,, 1986;Blondet et al, 2008a;Blondet et al, 2008b;Vargas-Neumann et al, 2007;Charleson, 2011;Gerardo Arayaet al, 2019), they have been applied seldom.…”