Numerical modeling of cavity-wall URM buildings

This paper presents the results of a numerical activity conducted in the framework of a wider research project that aims at assessing the seismic vulnerability of a particular typology of residential buildings in the Groningen region of the Netherlands, the so-called terraced houses. Simplified nonlinear numerical models have been created to replicate the results obtained by a series of unidirectional dynamic shaking-table tests conducted on a full-scale two-story URM building with cavity walls. The specimen was subjected to incremental dynamic tests up to the near collapse conditions with the objective of ascertaining the ultimate capacity and failure modes of the structure. The hysteretic response of the specimen, as well as the cracking pattern induced by the failure mechanisms activated during the tests, were simulated with the aid of an equivalent frame modelling approach making use of macroelements. A MDOF model of the tested building was calibrated to reproduce the outcomes of the laboratory tests, allowing the study of its sensitivity to salient parameters. In this context, some of the capabilities, as well as the limitations of the employed modelling approach in reproducing different aspects of the experimental response are highlighted and further investigated.