Seismic performance of reinforced concrete and masonry mixed structures

Masonry structures are well known structural types in human history. Although it was very popular in history, its use is also common. The masonry structures are constructed without any engineering services in rural parts. The material properties of masonry is brittle. Low tensional capacity and brittle nature of the material results in low deformation capacity and easy crack formation. The design and application mistakes in masonry structures also results in earthquake vulnerability. Keeping in mind, Turkey is one a very active earthquake zone, and for above mentioned reasons, the studies in masonry and its seismic behavior becomes very important for our country. In this study, Seismic performance of masonry structure is studied. The unique structure has reinforced (RC) columns and beams at the interior of a saloon. The outer walls are masonry type. The masonry structure is situated in 1.seismic zone and it has 3 stories. Since the structure has RC columns and masonry walls, it cannot be analyzed by the code defined methods. For this reason, the structure is modelled in finite element program. Two different strengthening approach is included in the study. The original structure has inadequate seismic performance. The strengthened structures satisfied Turkish earthquake codes requirements.