Seismic Assessment of Historic Masonry Structures: How Significant Is Material Strength?

Abstract eng:
The selection of appropriate material properties for use in seismic assessments of historic masonry structures often poses a considerable challenge to practicing structural engineers. Material properties influence the dynamic characteristics and therefore seismic demands imposed on a structure, and the capacity of a structure to resist those loads. In-situ or laboratory testing of individual masonry components may provide some guidance; however, the results often yield a wide range of potential material properties. In theory, the seismic capacity/demand ratio of unreinforced masonry structures could be significantly influenced by their material properties. In this study, however, it is demonstrated using the Centre Block of Parliament building in Ottawa, Canada as an example that the seismic capacity/demand ratios of many historic masonry buildings are relatively insensitive to the precise choice of material properties. This insensitivity is due to the high lateral stiffness common to many historic masonry buildings combined with masonry wall modes of failure that are largely controlled by the level of axial load present.

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