Assessment of seismic resistance of masonry structures including boundary conditions

The paper is devoted to the investigation of seismic response of the masonry structure and describes experiences with modelling of boundary conditions during the test of large heavy model on 6DOF shaking table. The main aim of the research was how to increase dynamic resistance capacity of old masonry buildings including the medium and strong seismic effects. The results of theoretical and numerical analyses are compared including initial forecasting calculations made before any test started. The emphasis is given to the boundary conditions reached during the excitation of the large masonry model via shaking table. Strengthening and retrofitting procedures and their effects are discussed when special fibre mortar is used for repair and strengthening of masonry parts of structure. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.