Seismic performance of confined brick masonry structure for multistory buildings: a comparative study

Abstract

Unreinforced masonry buildings experience significant damage during seismic events, often resulting in substantial structural failure and loss of life. This study investigates the use of confined brick masonry structures (CBMS) to reduce seismic vulnerability in residential buildings. The primary contribution of this research is the comparison between CBMS, conventional masonry structures (CMS), and frame structures (FS) in terms of seismic performance. Numerical models of CMS, FS, and CBMS structures are first developed using ABAQUS software. A nonlinear time-history analysis scheme is then employed, applying gravity loads followed by seismic loads at the base. The numerical analysis incorporates geometric and material nonlinearities to simulate seismic responses of structures. The results indicate that the CBMS exhibits higher seismic performance, displaying lower deformation and displacement compared to the CMS and the FS under the same earthquake ground motions. The concrete confinement in the CBMS enhances their ductility, flexibility, and overall resilience, offering a new approach to mitigate seismic damage in residential buildings. This study’s findings contribute to the advancement of seismic design methodologies, providing valuable insights into the use of CBMS in earthquake-resistant construction. Further researches are recommended to evaluate CBMS’s integrity in collapse scenarios, conduct cost-benefit analyses, and examine their responses under earthquake ground motions at various site conditions for more comprehensive insights.