Seismic reinforcement of buildings constructed from unreinforced masonry using shotcrete

Abstract

Introduction. This work mentions the existence of traditional and non-traditional methods of seismic reinforcement of buildings and structures, including buildings built from masonry and historical architectural monuments. Concrete shotcreting, or other cementbased mortar is considered as one of the methods of seismic reinforcement, which belongs to traditional methods and is regarded the most suitable in this case, since it allows seismic reinforcement of buildings constructed from unreinforced masonry, which includes many historical architectural monuments, increasing their load-bearing capacity and at the same time almost without increasing their weight. Aim. The research is intended to contribute to the seismic reinforcement of buildings, including architectural monuments, built from unreinforced masonry to withstand future seismic impacts from natural phenomena such as earthquake. Materials and methods. A review and detailed study of the seismic reinforcement method was carried out, namely shotcrete with concrete, which is a traditional method, its advantages and disadvantages, the essence of the method and the sequence of its implementation. A review of historical earthquakes in different countries and their devastating consequences for buildings constructed from unreinforced masonry was also carried out. The in-plane behavior of unreinforced masonry supports and walls under the influence of seismic lateral forces is considered. Results. The possible practical application and steps of concrete shotcrete over a metal mesh of unreinforced masonry walls for their seismic reinforcement are proposed and clearly demonstrated. Conclusions. Conclusions have been drawn about the feasibility of using shotcrete over a metal mesh for seismic reinforcement of buildings built from unreinforced masonry, which makes it possible to save the lives of people living in them in case of earthquakes.