Abstract
In order to assess the structural behaviour and to evaluate the seismic vulnerability of old masonry structures located in Lebanon, a historical masonry mosque was analysed under earthquake loading. A numerical model developed by the finite element method using Abaqus software was elaborated on the basis of previously published experimental studies. It was concluded that the numerical model can predict maximum stresses with reasonable accuracy, allowing control of a full scale wall model. This analysis shows that the stresses generated in the joints between the blocks exceed the ultimate shear stress of the mortar, resulting in cracks in the joints. The choice of an adequate structural rehabilitation method was limited because the mosque is of archaeological importance and its original appearance should not be modified. Therefore, a seismic retrofit solution using internal or external post tensioned tendons was recommended.
Highlights
The preservation and restoration of historical and archaeological buildings in Lebanon is becoming an urgent issue that requires the attention of the Lebanese engineering community as a whole
The studied structure was built using limestone masonry units assembled by lime mortar joints
The mechanical characteristics of similar blocks and mortar were previously determined [1]. These properties were used in order to develop and validate a numerical model at the scale of an assembly at the scale of a wall
Summary
The preservation and restoration of historical and archaeological buildings in Lebanon is becoming an urgent issue that requires the attention of the Lebanese engineering community as a whole. The studied mosque considered in this study, “Al-Muaallak”, is one of the mosques built up by Mahmud ibn-Lutfi, governor of Tripoli during the Ottoman period (Fig. 1). The mechanical characteristics of similar blocks and mortar were previously determined [1] These properties were used in order to develop and validate a numerical model at the scale of an assembly at the scale of a wall. A structural analysis of the studied building under gravity and earthquake loads was carried out based on the UBC 97 code [2]. This analysis yields to determine the lateral and gravitational forces applied to the masonry walls. The objective was to verify whether the effect of these loads was greater than the capacity of the masonry shear walls of the mosque
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