Methodology

The methodology of this scientific research and the entire procedure involves the use of the following methods:

1) observation method
2) modeling method
3) simulation method

The initial overview of the state of the area has already been partially completed in previous publications by the project leader and doctoral student Antonela Moretić. In addition, previous contributions from around the world in the narrower field of seismic vulnerability of URM buildings in block configurations will be investigated in detail theoretically. A longer mobility (min. one month) is planned to centers of excellence dealing with the same issues: University of Lisbon and EPFL. After the initial analysis, comprehensive data collection and creation of a data taxonomy will follow. Data on geometry, material characteristics, damage and other important parameters related to the case studies that will be used in the work, as well as on previous earthquakes and damage, will be collected and analyzed. The goal is to create a unique database, combining data provided by the Ministry of Physical Planning, Construction and State Property, the Croatian Center for Earthquake Engineering and data from archives. The research leader is working on the control of the projects from MPGI and has received permission to analyze the data for scientific purposes (over 500 renovation projects). Based on the collected data, several representative buildings will be defined that will represent certain types of traditional buildings, i.e. block units. The models will be classified into two basic groups: numerical models of individual units (freestanding buildings) and numerical models that take into account the influence of the block (the numerical model consists of three block units). In the case of the second group of models, a special focus will be on modeling the connection between the units. Non-linear static analyses will be performed and by varying certain parameters in the models, their influence on the seismic demand-capacity ratio will be observed. In addition to the influence on the seismic demand-capacity ratio, quantities such as stiffness, displacement and shear force capacities, etc. will also be observed. A structured database will be created that will contain detailed research results. This database will include all relevant data collected during the research, including information on numerical simulations, simulation results, adjusted weighting factors and actual building damage. After data collection, a detailed comparison between the different methods will be performed. Based on the actual damage and the results of numerical models, the existing damage curves will be calibrated. The method, which is adapted to the specifics of the Croatian building stock, will be compared with the results obtained through numerical simulations, as well as with the actual damage recorded in the field. The aim of this comparison is to identify differences and similarities between the predicted and actual results, and to determine the effectiveness and reliability of the method in assessing the condition of buildings and predicting potential damage. This analysis will provide valuable insights and guidelines for future research and practical application, and possibly as a basis for a seismic certificate. In addition to Zagreb, the case studies will be Karlovac and Petrinja. The empirical method for assessing the seismic damage of existing unreinforced masonry buildings, adapted to the Croatian building stock, will provide a clearer insight into the behavior of buildings built in blocks.