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Economic and numerical evaluation of masonry wall retrofitting using steel strips: an application-oriented study for rural areas
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Armin Memarzadeh95   , Mohammadreza Soghrat * , Daryoush Baladi |
| Department of Structural Retrofitting and Rehabilitation, Natural Disasters Research Institute, Tehran, Iran. , mr.soghrat@gmail.com |
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Abstract: (625 Views) |
Objective: This study provides a comprehensive review of available retrofitting methods for masonry buildings and evaluates their applicability in rural areas. Traditional masonry buildings are among the most common structural types in Iran and many developing countries. Due to the absence of standard seismic-resistant systems, non-engineered construction practices, and the use of low-quality materials, these structures are highly vulnerable to seismic events, even of moderate intensity. Given Iran’s high seismicity and the frequent occurrence of earthquakes across the country, improving the earthquake resistance of buildings is of critical importance. Masonry buildings, because of their large number, wide geographical distribution, and high vulnerability, require particular attention in seismic retrofitting programs. Moreover, the limited number of stories in such buildings has resulted in relatively similar construction patterns across different regions, making it possible to reduce both costs and construction time through appropriate retrofitting strategies rather than complete reconstruction.
Method: Numerous techniques have been proposed for the seismic retrofitting of masonry buildings, each with its own advantages, limitations, and implementation challenges. However, most previous studies have focused on only a limited number of methods. In this research, a broad range of retrofitting techniques was collected and analyzed. These methods were evaluated in relation to code requirements and practical implementation criteria to assess their feasibility for application in rural settings.
Results: Strengthening masonry walls using steel strips effectively prevents brittle and sudden shear failures by providing confinement to the walls. Appropriate spacing of steel strips acts as a stabilizing mechanism, enhances wall ductility, and improves structural performance. In addition, proper strip spacing helps reduce stresses caused by thermal variations and increases the energy absorption capacity of masonry walls, thereby improving their overall seismic behavior.
Conclusions: Based on the findings, the use of steel strips can be regarded as one of the most effective and practical retrofitting techniques among the methods reviewed. This approach stands out due to its ease of implementation, cost-effectiveness, and significant ability to improve the seismic performance of masonry buildings, particularly in rural areas. |
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| Keywords: Masonry Buildings, Seismic Retrofitting Techniques, Steel Strip Reinforcement, Finite Element Analysis (FEA). |
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Full-Text [PDF 1610 kb]
(77 Downloads)
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Type of Study: Research |
Subject:
عمران و شهرسازی
Received: 2023/11/11 | Accepted: 2026/03/15 | Published: 2026/03/15
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