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Engineering Structures: Design and Assessment Issues for Static and Seismic Actions

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A special issue of Applied Sciences (ISSN 2076-3417). This special issue belongs to the section "Civil Engineering".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 December 2023) | Viewed by 11792

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Special Issue Editors

Dr. Diego Gino

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Guest Editor

Department of Structural, Geotechnical and Building Engineering (DISEG), Politecnico di Torino, 10129 Turin, Italy
Interests: non-linear numerical analysis; structural reliability; existing structures; reinforced concrete; prestressed concrete; bridges; composite structures
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Prof. Dr. Luca Giordano

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Guest Editor

Department of Structural, Geotechnical and Building Engineering (DISEG), Politecnico di Torino, 10129 Turin, Italy
Interests: bridges design; existing bridges assessment; reinforced concrete structures; robustness; steel structures

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

A safety evaluation of the engineering structures and the built heritage is one of the crucial challenges for our civil society.

The ecological transition demands an increasing effort to develope sustainable processes in the construction sector. In particular, researchers, engineers, and practitioners are called to develop new technologies, designs, and assessment methods to account for the influence on structures of both static and seismic actions. In addition, climate change, with a related increasing rate of extreme events, could modify the methodological approaches associated with the conceptual design of new structures and the assessment of existing ones.

In this framework, the Special Issue dedicated to the “Engineering structures: design and assessment issues for static and seismic actions” is glad to welcome novel contributions on, but not limited to, the following topics:

Innovation in methods for structural design and assessment;
Reliability and risk analysis for design and assessment under static and seismic actions;
Innovative and sustainable building materials;
Design for robustness;
Technologies and methods for seismic protection and assessment;
Strengthening and retrofitting techniques;
Maintenance and LCA issues (i.e., predictive, proactive, etc.).

Dr. Diego Gino
Prof. Dr. Luca Giordano
Guest Editors

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Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

reinforced concrete strcuctures
steel structures
composite structures
masonry structures
bridges
structural reliability
seismic protection

Published Papers (7 papers)

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Research

15 pages, 8624 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Enhancing Seismic Response in Frame Structures through Rigid Connections to Structures with Vibro-Impacting Mass

by Angelo Di Egidio and Alessandro Contento

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(2), 695; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14020695 - 13 Jan 2024

Viewed by 882

Abstract

In this paper, a promising approach is studied that can efficiently mitigate seismic effects on a frame structure by coupling it with an protection system. Various devices are employed to achieve this objective, including tuned mass dampers, dynamic mass absorbers, elastoplastic dampers, and rocking rigid walls. This paper delves into the efficacy of a vibro-impacting nonlinear energy sink in reducing seismic effects on a frame structure. More precisely, a supplementary apparatus, consisting of an auxiliary structure equipped with a vibro-impacting nonlinear energy sink, is rigidly linked to the first story of the targeted frame structure. The seismic response of this coupled system is derived through a dynamically equivalent, low-dimensional model. As a result of the rigid connection between the frame structure and the protection system, the low-dimensional model includes only three degrees of freedom: two displacements that represent the motion of the frame structure, which is rigidly connected to the external structure, while the third characterizes the motion of the vibro-impacting mass. For the vibro-impacting nonlinear energy sink, an ideal model, which assumes instantaneous impacts, is used for the vibro-impacting mass. The proposed model is used for an in-depth parametric analysis, and the outcomes are presented in gain maps that illustrate the effectiveness of the coupling within a designated parameter plane. The findings demonstrate that the coupling with the external structure, which is equipped with a vibro-impacting mass, effectively mitigates displacements and drifts in the frame structure across a broad range of parameter values that define the protection system. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Engineering Structures: Design and Assessment Issues for Static and Seismic Actions)

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17 pages, 14085 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Machine Learning Algorithms for the Prediction of the Seismic Response of Rigid Rocking Blocks

by Ioannis Karampinis, Kosmas E. Bantilas, Ioannis E. Kavvadias, Lazaros Iliadis and Anaxagoras Elenas

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(1), 341; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14010341 - 29 Dec 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1122

Abstract

A variety of structural members and non-structural components, including bridge piers, museum artifacts, furniture, or electrical and mechanical equipment, can uplift and rock under ground motion excitations. Given the inherently non-linear nature of rocking behavior, employing machine learning algorithms to predict rocking response presents a notable challenge. In the present study, the performance of supervised ML algorithms in predicting the maximum seismic response of free-standing rigid blocks subjected to ground motion excitations is evaluated. As such, both regression and classification algorithms were developed and tested, aiming to model the finite rocking response and rocking overturn. From this point of view, it is essential to estimate the maximum rocking rotation and to efficiently classify its magnitude by successfully assigning respective labels. To this end, a dataset containing the response data of 1100 rigid blocks subjected to 15,000 ground motion excitations, was employed. The results showed high accuracy in both the classification (

95 %

accuracy) and regression (coefficient of determination

R^{2} = 0.89

) tasks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Engineering Structures: Design and Assessment Issues for Static and Seismic Actions)

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23 pages, 33198 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Structural Failures of Adobe Buildings during the February 2023 Kahramanmaraş (Türkiye) Earthquakes

by Ercan Işık

Appl. Sci. 2023, 13(15), 8937; https://doi.org/10.3390/app13158937 - 3 Aug 2023

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 2835

Abstract

Türkiye experienced great destruction during the Kahramanmaraş earthquake couple which occurred as Pazarcık (M_w = 7.7) and Elbistan (M_w = 7.6) on 6 February 2023. The weak structural characteristics and the magnitude of the earthquakes caused more than 50,000 casualties. Significant damage occurred in both urban and rural building stock in 11 different provinces that were primarily affected by the earthquakes. The dominant building stock is masonry structures in the rural areas of the earthquake region. Structural damages at various levels have occurred in adobe masonry structures built using local labours and resources without any engineering service. The main purpose of this study is to examine the failure and collapse mechanisms of adobe structures after Kahramanmaraş earthquakes in detail. First of all, information about both earthquakes was given. The earthquake intensity for all provinces was obtained by using the peak ground acceleration-intensity relation suggested for Türkiye, taking into account the measured PGAs in earthquakes. The observed structural damages were evaluated in terms of earthquake and civil engineering in adobe structures. Damage classification was conducted using European Macro-Seismic Scale (EMS-98) for a total of 100 adobe buildings. Of these structures, 25% were destroyed, 49% were heavily damaged, 15% were damaged moderately, and 11% were damaged slightly. In addition, the rules regarding adobe structures were compared considering the last two earthquake design codes used in Türkiye. In the study, suggestions were also presented to prevent structural damage in the adobe buildings in the earthquake region. Low strength of adobe material, usage of heavy earthen roofs, failure to comply with earthquake-resistant building design principles, and insufficient support of load-bearing walls are the main causes of damage. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Engineering Structures: Design and Assessment Issues for Static and Seismic Actions)

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22 pages, 4167 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Numerical Assessment of the Seismic Vulnerability of Bridges within the Italian Road Network

by Marco Furinghetti, Simone Reale, Matthew J. Fox and Alberto Pavese

Appl. Sci. 2023, 13(14), 8194; https://doi.org/10.3390/app13148194 - 14 Jul 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1353

Abstract

The safety of existing bridges represents a serious problem in Italy since these structures are fundamental for the national transportation system and, at the same time, can be subject to significant deterioration phenomena linked to the fact that the construction period typically dates back to the 1960s. This study involves the seismic analysis of five case study bridges belonging to the Italian Road Network. Using nonlinear time–history analysis with sets of code-spectrum compatible ground motions, analytical fragility curves have been constructed for each of the five bridges. The results obtained interpreting the analytical fragility curves agree with the fact that the seismic behavior of existing bridges can be problematic and that higher seismicity can be associated with more detrimental behavior. In particular, the results reveal that in regions with higher seismicity, the main problems in bridges are related to bearings and connecting elements located in the piers. Five case studies have also been analyzed to determine the Structural and Foundational Class of Attention and Seismic Class of Attention, following the approach proposed by the 2020 Italian Guidelines. In this way, it is possible to compare two different assessment approaches with different safety levels. The results obtained with the two approaches are in good agreement considering bridges in high seismicity regions, while the procedure of the Guidelines could lead to not reflecting the seismic behavior of bridges when the seismicity of the area is lower. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Engineering Structures: Design and Assessment Issues for Static and Seismic Actions)

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21 pages, 13447 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Full-Scale Testing and Analytical Modeling of Rebar Cages Reinforced with Mechanical U-Bolt Connectors

by Masood Vahedi, Hamed Ebrahimian and Ahmad M. Itani

Appl. Sci. 2023, 13(14), 8113; https://doi.org/10.3390/app13148113 - 12 Jul 2023

Viewed by 2412

Abstract

Rebar cages are the skeletons of reinforced concrete structures. These temporary structures consist of longitudinal and transverse reinforcing bars connected by tie-wires. Given the relatively low strength of tie-wire connections, replacing tie-wires with mechanical connectors such as U-bolts can improve the stability and strength of rebar cages. This paper aims to understand the behavior of large prefabricated rebar cages reinforced with mechanical U-bolt connectors through experimental and analytical investigations. Twenty-six full-scale experimental tests are performed on five different underground pile-shaft rebar cages with tie-wire and U-bolt connectors to determine their behavior during different site handling conditions. The data obtained from the experiments are used to develop and calibrate detailed finite element models that can predict the complex response behavior of rebar cages reinforced with U-bolt connectors. The results show that U-bolt connectors can effectively ensure rebar cage integrity even under extreme loading conditions. Additionally, it is concluded that the presence of U-bolt connectors allows for the elimination of internal stiffening elements, which are common for large rebar cages, adding to the simplicity and efficiency of the construction process. The results of this study can be used as a basis for establishing analysis, design, fabrication, and handling guidelines for rebar cages. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Engineering Structures: Design and Assessment Issues for Static and Seismic Actions)

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23 pages, 12964 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Synergic Effects of Nano Additives on Mechanical Performance and Microstructure of Lightweight Cement Mortar

by Yiying Du and Aleksandrs Korjakins

Appl. Sci. 2023, 13(8), 5130; https://doi.org/10.3390/app13085130 - 20 Apr 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1321

Abstract

Owing to their convenient manufacture, transportation, low energy consumption, and environmental impacts, lightweight cement composites have been applied as building and construction materials. However, its decreased density is associated with a reduction in mechanical strength. In most existing investigations, attempts have been made to improve mechanical behaviours via supplementary cementitious or fibre materials, whereas limited studies have been implemented on the effects of nano additives, especially their synergic influence. In this study, industrial waste fly ash cenosphere (FAC) has been utilized as lightweight aggregate by 73.3% cement weight to fabricate sustainable lightweight cement mortar (LWCM). Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) at a dosage of 0.05%, 0.15%, and 0.45% and nano silica (NS) with the content of 0.2%, 0.6%, and 1.0% by cement weight have been applied as modifying additives. Experiments were carried out to test flexural strength, compressive strength, and water absorption. SEM, TG, and XRD analyses were conducted to evaluate microstructure and hydration characteristics. Based on the outcomes, the inclusion of CNTs and NS can effectively increase flexural and compressive strength and reduce absorbed water weight. The analysis of SEM, TG, and XRD reveals that the binary usage of CNTs and NS can improve pore structure and facilitate hydration reaction. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Engineering Structures: Design and Assessment Issues for Static and Seismic Actions)

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24 pages, 14852 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of Masonry Infills on Seismic Performance of an Existing RC Building Retrofitted by Means of FPS Devices

by Diego Gino, Elena Miceli, Luca Giordano, Giuseppe Carlo Marano and Paolo Castaldo

Appl. Sci. 2023, 13(6), 3509; https://doi.org/10.3390/app13063509 - 9 Mar 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1188

Abstract

The safety assessment of existing structures in areas with a relevant seismic hazard is one of the major topics for engineers since many existing reinforced concrete structures have been realized disregarding seismic design with minimal details with respect to present practice. In this context, seismic assessment is a primary issue in order to identify the best retrofitting solution with the aim of enhancing the efficiency of existing buildings. In recent years, with the aim to enhance the seismic behavior of reinforced concrete (RC) structures (with particular care to existing ones), the system of seismic isolation adopting friction pendulum (FPS) devices proved to be among the most diffuse and effective solutions. The purpose of this paper is to explore the effectiveness of the refurbishment using FPS with single concavity devices on the performance of one irregular existing RC building placed in a highly seismic area of central Italy. First, the geometric and material characteristics of the building have been determined within the approach based on the “knowledge levels”. Second, a suitable numerical model based on a fiber-modeling approach has been established using SAP2000, including relevant mechanical non-linearities. Then, a set of 21 natural seismic inputs, inclusive of 3 accelerations over vertical and horizontal directions, was adopted with the aim of performing non-linear (NL) dynamic simulations. The NL dynamic simulations have been performed considering the structural system, both inclusive and not inclusive of the FPS isolator devices. The influence of the actual distribution of infill masonry panels on the overall behavior of the structure has also been evaluated in both of the cases mentioned above. Finally, the outcomes deriving from the NL dynamic simulations were helpful in assessing the advantages of the intervention of retrofitting to improve the seismic performance of the building, highlighting the influence of masonry infills. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Engineering Structures: Design and Assessment Issues for Static and Seismic Actions)

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