Assessment of Seismic Capability of an Old Masonry Teaching Building

Abstract

In 1960s, considerable teaching buildings were built by old seismic design on Chinese campus. After work more than 40 years, their current seismic capability needs further analysis. This paper assesses the capability of load and elastic deformation[1] of a teaching building, masonry structure, to discuss whether they can meet the higher seismic design requirements of the current codes. The study concentrates on three tasks: analytical investigation; test of compressive strength of bricks; comparatively studies using two PMCAD models with emphasis on ratio of resistance to effect, and data of inter-story displacement angle. The models were studied, namely, initial work phase model basing on seismic precautionary intensity VII and current work phase model basing on seismic precautionary intensity VIII. Results of this study provide preliminary information and recommendations for seismic assessment and strengthening of teaching buildings.