Shape matters

Shape matters: Influence of varying settlement profiles due to multicausal subsidence when modelling damage in a masonry façade

Prosperi, A. (TU Delft Applied Mechanics)
Longo, M. (TU Delft Applied Mechanics)
Korswagen, Paul A. (TU Delft Applied Mechanics)
Korff, M. (TU Delft Geo-engineering; Deltares)
Rots, J.G. (TU Delft Applied Mechanics)

2023

This paper demonstrates the use of non-linear finite element modelling to investigate the response of structures subjected to different shapes of subsidence-related ground settlements. The approach is presented with reference to a two-storey unreinforced masonry façade resting on a shallow foundation. Eight realistic settlement shapes, based on field and literature data, are applied in the model with increasing intensity. The intensity of the subsidence profiles is characterized using their (angular) distortion. The extent of the induced damage on the façade is objectively and directly quantified by a damage parameter, based on the number of cracks, their length and opening. The performance of different settlement indicators and corresponding limiting values, typically employed in the state of the art, is in this paper discussed in relation to the damage modelling strategy; these are observed to be dependent on the shape of the settlement profiles. The aim of this paper is thus to provide insight into the extent to which the vulnerability of masonry buildings depends on the shape of the subsidence pattern and may serve as a warning not to use (deterministic) damage indicators such as angular distortion without considering the settlement shape.

http://resolver.tudelft.nl/uuid:068d8cfd-be1e-42f6-b29e-ccfbac1206dc

Tenth International Symposium on Land Subsidence 2023, 2023-04-17 → 2023-04-23, Technische Universiteit Delft Aula Congrescentrum, Delft, Netherlands

Institutional Repository

conference paper

© 2023 A. Prosperi, M. Longo, Paul A. Korswagen, M. Korff, J.G. Rots