Seismic Resistance Assessment of Heritage Masonry Buildings in Ljubljana

Abstract

A recently developed parametric method (PO-ZID) for the assessment of the seismic resistance of masonry buildings is presented, with an estimate of the correlation of this approach with the latest Slovenian methodology for seismic vulnerability assessment (RAN-Z). The acronyms PO-ZID and RAN-Z refer, in Slovenian, to the seismic resistance and seismic vulnerability of masonry buildings. The new method is based on a well-considered choice of parameters and a suitable database. The input parameters are determined on the basis of the known mechanical properties of masonry, the amount and distribution of the structural walls, and the weight of the building. The only output parameter is the seismic resistance coefficient, which is the ratio between the seismic resistance and the weight of the building. The database has been assembled from the results of the seismic resistance analysis of existing buildings, mainly heritage masonry buildings, located in the Municipality of Ljubljana, as well as in other parts of Slovenia. This new method was applied to several groups of older masonry buildings, many of which are in public use, such as fire stations, older elementary school buildings and kindergartens, and some buildings belonging to local or national authorities.