Research and TLS (LiDAR) Construction Diagnostics of Clay Brick Masonry Arched Stairs

The study presents the terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) diagnostic of the clay brick masonry arched staircase in a historic building. Based on the measurements of the existing arched stair flights, 1:1 scale experimental models with and without stair treads were made. Strength tests of the models were carried out for different concentrated force locations in relation to the supporting structure. Force, deflections and reaction in the upper support of the run were measured during the tests. The influence of the masonry steps on the curved vault on the load capacity and stiffness of the run structure was analyzed. The conducted experimental investigations showed that the key element responsible for the actual load-bearing capacity and stiffness of this type of stair flights were the treads above the masonry arch.

Retrofitting of Confined Brick Masonry with FRP

Brick masonry structures are commonly used in world because of its simplicity and economy. However, it is susceptible to failure in earthquakes because of the bricks weak interlocking bonds and brick masonry structures designed mainly against gravity load demand. Therefore, in recent years research work has been conducted to confine the unreinforced brick masonry with reinforced concrete tie beams and column, to improve its seismic performance. This enhances both the lateral resistance and stability of the entire structure, to perform as one mass unit against the lateral forces. However, the effect of confining brick masonry through reinforced concrete member has been evaluated in the past only on testing single cantilever walls or single room. Therefore, this research work aims to evaluate its influence on large structures i.e., highlight its limitation and afterward mitigate the damages by introducing external FRP strengthening techniques. The structures configuration is based on the observation made in Pakistan’s rural areas where mostly brick masonry structure. Confined brick masonry walls are subjected to quasi static lateral loading, afterwards retrofitted with FRP and tested again. The test result discussion includes load response behavior, stiffness degradation, energy dissipation and damage indices. Keywords: Confined brick masonry, RC tie beam column, FRP, Retrofitting, Seismic analysis, Quasi Static