Numerical Evaluation of Seismic Retrofitting of Heritage Building by Friction Dampers Based on Geometry Obtained by Laser Scans

Abstract

AbstractThe main objective of this paper is to investigate the feasibility of using friction dampers for a seismic retrofit of a historic building in Uzbekistan. This study is part of the extensive ongoing project dealing with the structural assessment of heritage buildings along the ancient Great Silk Road by means of laser scanning and other advanced methods of structural health monitoring. In an earlier study, it was shown that the existing structural reinforcement of the portal in the Kok-Gumbaz monument in Shakhrisabz was deficient and had a strong potential of poor performance in case of an earthquake. As one of the conclusions of the earlier study, it was shown that the building’s existing reinforcement needs to be modified. The structural assessment and numerical analysis was limited to the portal of the movement while the main building with a globe was not considered. This was related to the fact that there is a continuous crack separating the portal from the main building. A complex numerical model of the portal was generated, which was examined for its seismic performance and stability. The numerical model of the historic monument was developed from the point clouds collected with a terrestrial laser scanner to ensure that it closely replicates all imperfections of the actual monument. As one of the best retrofitting alternatives, friction dampers were introduced into the model to study their efficiency. The numerical model was subjected to a ground shaking recommended by the structural code of Uzbekistan. A nonlinear time history analysis of the numerical model protected with the friction dampers clearly demonstrated the benefits of the friction dampers in the seismic protection of the historic monument. Based on the results of this study, the friction dampers are recommended for practical application in the future retrofitting projects of the monument.KeywordsStructural health monitoringSeismic assessmentLaser scanningFriction dampersSeismic protectionSeismic retrofit strategies