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The Methods, Tools and Techniques for the Preservation of Existing...
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The Methods, Tools and Techniques for the Preservation of Existing Structures

A topical collection in Buildings (ISSN 2075-5309). This collection belongs to the section "Building Structures".

Viewed by 36793

Editors

Dr. Mislav Stepinac

E-Mail Website
Collection Editor
Faculty of Civil Engineering, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
Interests: structural assessment; historic structures; timber structures; masonry structures; scan to fem; seismic risk; drones
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Prof. Dr. Tomislav Kišiček

E-Mail Website
Collection Editor
Chair of Concrete and Masonry Structures, Department of Structural Engineering, Faculty of Civil Engineering, University of Zagreb, HR-10000 Zagreb, Croatia
Interests: civil engineering; composites; construction; structural analysis; earthquake engineering; construction materials; construction engineering; finite element analysis; mechanical properties
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Ivan Lukačević

E-Mail Website
Collection Editor
Chair for Metal Structures, Faculty of Civil Engineering, Department for Structures, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
Interests: metal and composite structures; structural stability and structural reliability
Dr. Ivan Duvnjak

E-Mail Website
Collection Editor
Faculty of Civil Engineering, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
Interests: assessment of structures; SHM; damage detection; theory of elasticity; static and dynamic testings of structures
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Topical Collection Information

Dear Colleagues,

Maintaining the built environment is supported by the global policy of the Kyoto protocol 1997 and all further World Climate Summits on existing buildings and engineering works. Regarding economy and sustainability, it is of great importance for a society to maintain existing building stock instead of demolishing and rebuilding them. The surge of buildings higher consequence class (and the global goals towards sustainable development) typically demand higher levels of reliability. That is why the aims are to modify or extend existing buildings rather than demolition and substitution.

The two earthquakes in Croatia in 2020 caused severe damage to existing building stock and proved once again that society's preparedness is crucial for a better response to natural disasters. To have a better renovation of the cities and society as a whole, knowledge of existing structures is crucial.

This Topical Collection aims to collect original and high-quality papers discussing the tools, methods, procedures for the assessment, monitoring, reconstruction, maintenance and preservation of existing structures. Descriptive papers addressing the existing masonry, concrete, steel and timber structures are welcome. Structural updating, Value of information modelling and reliability analyses in the case of existing structures are highly appreciated.

The main idea of this Topical Collection is to gather a database of methods, tools, and different types of analyses for:

  • Assessment of existing structures;
  • Heritage preservation;
  • The role of material, component, and assembly aspects in the behaviour of existing structures;
  • Monitoring of existing structures;
  • Use of emerging technologies in the prediction of structural behaviour;
  • Advances in numerical modelling of existing structures;
  • Decision-making process and reconstruction of existing structures;
  • Reliability analyses and standardization in the field of existing structures.

Dr. Mislav Stepinac
Prof. Dr. Tomislav Kišiček
Dr. Ivan Lukačević
Dr. Ivan Duvnjak
Collection Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the collection website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Buildings is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 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

  • existing structures
  • seismic design
  • assessment
  • NDT
  • heritage
  • numerical modeling
  • reconstruction
  • urban planning
  • monitoring

Published Papers (8 papers)

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2023

Jump to: 2022, 2021

16 pages, 3122 KiB  
Article
Assessment of Existing Masonry Resistance Using Partial Factors Approaches and Field Measurements
by Luka Lulić, Ivan Lukačević, Davor Skejić and Mislav Stepinac
Buildings 2023, 13(11), 2790; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings13112790 - 6 Nov 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1537
Abstract
The vast majority of existing structures in Croatia, as well as in other European countries, are made of unreinforced masonry. The seemingly ideal building material presents a great challenge for engineers in earthquake-prone zones. Given that structural failure can have significant consequences in [...] Read more.
The vast majority of existing structures in Croatia, as well as in other European countries, are made of unreinforced masonry. The seemingly ideal building material presents a great challenge for engineers in earthquake-prone zones. Given that structural failure can have significant consequences in terms of loss of human lives as well as financial losses, a comprehensive structural reliability assessment is needed. Old existing masonry structures often do not have design documentation, and even when they do, the initial mechanical properties have almost certainly degraded over time. That is why in situ testing is of great importance, but masonry is also characterized by a large scattering of results. After recent severe earthquakes in Croatia, more than ever, there is a need for a more reliable assessment of existing masonry structures. This paper presents reliability approaches for resistance evaluation of existing masonry in a real case study where basic failure modes of the masonry were observed. First, the data recommended in standards were used, followed by the updated data obtained from the flat-jack test. Finally, the design value method (DVM) and the adjusted partial factor method (APFM) were used. These methods align with Eurocode standards for new structures but are also adaptable for the assessment of existing structures. Differences in the results between the existing and the new version of the standard were observed, as well as an increase in the obtained resistances with an increase in the complexity of the methods used. Also, the influence of in situ testing proved to be an important factor in the analysis. Full article
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23 pages, 9489 KiB  
Article
Dynamic Characterisation of a Heritage Structure with Limited Accessibility Using Ambient Vibrations
by Ahmad R. Bakkar, Ahmed Elyamani, Adel G. El-Attar, Dan V. Bompa, Ahmed Y. Elghazouli and Sherif A. Mourad
Buildings 2023, 13(1), 192; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings13010192 - 11 Jan 2023
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2103
Abstract
Historic Cairo has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979. It has more than 600 historic structures, which require extensive studies to sustain their cultural, religious, and economic values. The main aim of this paper is to undertake dynamic investigation tests for [...] Read more.
Historic Cairo has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979. It has more than 600 historic structures, which require extensive studies to sustain their cultural, religious, and economic values. The main aim of this paper is to undertake dynamic investigation tests for the dome of Fatima Khatun, a historic mausoleum in Historic Cairo dating back to the 13th century and consisting of mainly bricks and stones. The challenge was that the structure was difficult to access, and only a small portion of the top was accessible for the attachment of accelerometers. Current dynamic identification procedures typically adopt methods in which the sensors are arranged at optimal locations and permit direct assessment of the natural frequencies, mode shapes, and damping ratios of a structure. Approaches that allow for the evaluation of dynamic response for structures with limited accessibility are lacking. To this end, in addition to in situ dynamic investigation tests, a numerical model was created based on available architectural, structural, and material documentation to obtain detailed insight into the dominant modes of vibration. The free vibration analysis of the numerical model identified the dynamic properties of the structure using reasonable assumptions on boundary conditions. System identification, which was carried out using in situ dynamic investigation tests and input from modelling, captured three experimental natural frequencies of the structure with their mode shapes and damping ratios. The approach proposed in this study informs and directs structural restoration for the mausoleum and can be used for other heritage structures located in congested historic sites. Full article
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2022

Jump to: 2023, 2021

28 pages, 14634 KiB  
Article
On-Site Risk Assessment Methodology of Historic Timber Structures: The Case Study of Santa Cruz Church
by Javier Sola-Caraballo, José María Rincón-Calderón, Carlos Rivera-Gómez, José Antonio López-Martínez and Carmen Galán-Marín
Buildings 2022, 12(7), 935; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings12070935 - 1 Jul 2022
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3090
Abstract
The conservation and repair of historic structures require significant resources. Therefore, it is important to conduct a complete assessment of the object. Specifically, historical timber frame structures are very common in the Spanish and Andalusian geographic area. This research proposes and develops a [...] Read more.
The conservation and repair of historic structures require significant resources. Therefore, it is important to conduct a complete assessment of the object. Specifically, historical timber frame structures are very common in the Spanish and Andalusian geographic area. This research proposes and develops a simplified approach to facilitate decision making when faced with this complex work. By the application of long-established non-destructive tests, such as organoleptic and measuring inspection, resistography, and electric moisture content test, combined with visual classification parameters, these data were used as boundary conditions into a simplified structural calculation method. This process, which is simpler than other calculation systems, allows compiling important information about the safety level of the structure and its critical points. Finally, it allows for a better approach to repair work while rationalizing resources. This method was applied to a historical structure, during an 18th century church repair project. The assessment methodology provided important information about the conservation state of the timber frame and its structural suitability. Full article
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28 pages, 10058 KiB  
Article
Damage Assessment of Road Bridges Caused by Extreme Streamflow in Montenegro: Reconstruction and Structural Upgrading
by Jelena Pejović, Nina Serdar and Radenko Pejović
Buildings 2022, 12(6), 810; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings12060810 - 12 Jun 2022
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3088
Abstract
The extreme river streamflow that occurred during floods in 2010 in Montenegro caused significant damage to infrastructure and road facilities. The most severe damages were located on bridges crossing the river Lim, where a rapid water level increase in several municipalities led to [...] Read more.
The extreme river streamflow that occurred during floods in 2010 in Montenegro caused significant damage to infrastructure and road facilities. The most severe damages were located on bridges crossing the river Lim, where a rapid water level increase in several municipalities led to failure or damage of almost 20 bridges. In this paper, a damage assessment of four significantly damaged reinforced concrete (RC) bridges, located in the affected zone of 40 km, is conducted. One bridge in Berane (bridge 1) and three bridges located on roads upstream from Berane (bridges 2, 3, and 4) were analyzed. Extreme water levels and inadequate flow profiles caused great damage to the bridges of which the piers were not adequately founded. A scouring process under the foundation of piers and abutments located in the riverbed occurred due to surface erosion and degradation of alluvial sediments. Applied methods and techniques for reconstruction and structural strengthening of bridges are presented in detail as well as results of conducted analyses of the design reconstruction process. In order to design appropriate structural strengthening, nonlinear analyses of bridges due to the settlement of the piers were performed. The research findings can be used in the vulnerability assessment and reconstruction planning phases for other bridges in the considered zone. Full article
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2021

Jump to: 2023, 2022

25 pages, 10212 KiB  
Review
Seismic Vulnerability Assessment and Strengthening of Heritage Timber Buildings: A Review
by Amirhosein Shabani, Ali Alinejad, Mohammad Teymouri, André Nascimento Costa, Mahgol Shabani and Mahdi Kioumarsi
Buildings 2021, 11(12), 661; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings11120661 - 18 Dec 2021
Cited by 24 | Viewed by 6128
Abstract
Recent studies highlight the potential impact of earthquakes on cultural heritage sites and monuments, which in turn yield significant adverse impacts on economies, politics, and societies. Several aspects such as building materials, structural responses, and restoration strategies must be considered in the conservation [...] Read more.
Recent studies highlight the potential impact of earthquakes on cultural heritage sites and monuments, which in turn yield significant adverse impacts on economies, politics, and societies. Several aspects such as building materials, structural responses, and restoration strategies must be considered in the conservation of heritage structures. Timber is an old organic construction material. Most of the historic timber structures were not designed to withstand seismic forces; therefore, the seismic vulnerability assessment of heritage timber structures in areas with high seismic hazard is essential for their conservation. For this purpose, different strategies for the numerical modeling of heritage timber buildings have been developed and validated against tests results. After performing seismic analysis using detailed analytical methods and predicting the susceptible structural components, strengthening techniques should be utilized to mitigate the risk level. To this aim, various methods using wooden components, composite material, steel components, SMA etc., have been utilized and tested and are reviewed in this study. There are still some gaps, such as full-scale numerical modeling of strengthened buildings and investigating the soil–structure interaction effects on the seismic behavior of buildings that should be investigated. Full article
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11 pages, 3373 KiB  
Article
HBIM for the Characteristics of Korean Traditional Wooden Architecture: Bracket Set Modelling Based on 3D Scanning
by Hyun-Chul Youn, Jun-Seop Yoon and Seong-Lyong Ryoo
Buildings 2021, 11(11), 506; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings11110506 - 26 Oct 2021
Cited by 21 | Viewed by 4853
Abstract
Historic building information modelling (HBIM) is a technology that documents and analyses 3D model information for reverse engineering using laser scan and image survey data of buildings having heritage value. In the case of traditional Korean wooden architectures, especially the bracket-sets of buildings, [...] Read more.
Historic building information modelling (HBIM) is a technology that documents and analyses 3D model information for reverse engineering using laser scan and image survey data of buildings having heritage value. In the case of traditional Korean wooden architectures, especially the bracket-sets of buildings, there is a limit to accuracy, owing to non-visible seams. Thus, in this study, mesh modelling is conducted using point-cloud data of the entire Seoikheon building of Jeonju Pungpajigwan, which is a national cultural property of Korea. After dismantling the building, scanning the members and cross-checking the cloud data, it was possible to create a realistic Rhino 3D model that includes joints of the bracket set. Hence, it is possible to implement a 3D model in Revit that reflects the unique shapes and characteristics of traditional wooden architectures. The resultant model not only provides a platform of various historic building information, but it can also be used as a digital twin to understand deformation and damage to wooden joints. Full article
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18 pages, 30815 KiB  
Article
Damage Assessment of Reinforced Concrete Elements Due to Corrosion Effect Using Dynamic Parameters: A Review
by Ivan Duvnjak, Ivan Klepo, Marijana Serdar and Domagoj Damjanović
Buildings 2021, 11(10), 425; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings11100425 - 22 Sep 2021
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 4931
Abstract
Corrosion of reinforcement is one of the main problems related to the durability of reinforced concrete structures. This can cause cracks and a separation of the protective layer, as well as reducing strength and structural stiffness, which can result in numerous human casualties. [...] Read more.
Corrosion of reinforcement is one of the main problems related to the durability of reinforced concrete structures. This can cause cracks and a separation of the protective layer, as well as reducing strength and structural stiffness, which can result in numerous human casualties. Visual inspection is a standard method of assessing the condition of reinforced concrete structures whose limitations, such as time, interpretability, accessibility, etc., may affect its effectiveness. Therefore, damage determination methods based on dynamic parameters are becoming more and more prominent in the assessment of damage to reinforced concrete structures. The aim of this paper is to review the literature regarding the determination of corrosion of reinforcement by methods based on dynamic parameters, and to identify future research to develop a method that would detect corrosion problems in time through a continuous system of structural health monitoring. Full article
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21 pages, 1719 KiB  
Article
Ductility of Concrete Beams Reinforced with FRP Rebars
by Tvrtko Renić and Tomislav Kišiček
Buildings 2021, 11(9), 424; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings11090424 - 21 Sep 2021
Cited by 15 | Viewed by 8793
Abstract
Concrete beams reinforced with FRP rebars have greater durability than standard steel reinforced elements. The main disadvantage of using FRP rebars is the low ductility of elements which may be unacceptable in certain situations. There are several different ways of increasing the ductility [...] Read more.
Concrete beams reinforced with FRP rebars have greater durability than standard steel reinforced elements. The main disadvantage of using FRP rebars is the low ductility of elements which may be unacceptable in certain situations. There are several different ways of increasing the ductility of concrete elements, which are analyzed in this paper. They are compared based on efficiency, influence on durability and ease of construction. Less analyzed and tested methods are given more attention to try and expand the current knowledge and possibilities. For methods that lack experimental data, theoretical analysis is undertaken to assess the possible influence of that method on the increase in ductility. Ductility was obtained by calculating bending moment–curvature diagrams of cross sections for different reinforcement layouts. One method that lacks experimental data is confining the compressive area of beams with tensile FRP reinforcement. Theoretical analysis showed that confining the compressive area of concrete can significantly increase the ductility and bending capacity of beams. Since experimental data of beams reinforced with FRP rebars in tension and confined compressive area is sparse, some suggestions on the possible test setups are given to validate this theoretical analysis. Concrete beams reinforced with FRP can be detailed in such a way that they have sufficient ductility, but additional experimental research is needed. Full article
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