Structural assessment of Eastern Canada’s transitional unreinforced masonry buildings: case study analysis

This research project will contribute to the preservation of the existing building stock and mitigate potential seismic risks by developing simplified numerical models to contribute to the seismic assessment of local unreinforced masonry (URM) buildings. Old URM structures are a prominent building type across Eastern Canada, contributing to the rich architectural heritage and cultural fabric of the region. Despite their vulnerability to earthquakes, and as Eastern Canada is a moderate seismicity region, the seismic assessment and strengthening of old URM buildings remains an important yet understudied focus. The focus of this research project is to develop accurate numerical models for the seismic analysis in the case study of an old URM industrial building, typical of Québec, using two novel, simplified modelling strategies implemented in two commonly used software for structural analysis. The first technique is by using a macro-modelling strategy in 3DEC, a distinct element modelling software widely used for masonry. The second modelling strategy uses a macro-element developed for analysis of URM in OpenSees. Results expand the understanding of the behaviour of typical Eastern Canadian buildings, important to inform future assessment and retrofit procedures.

Faculty Supervisor:

Daniele Malomo

Student:

Partner:

École polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Education

University:

McGill University

Program: