Fast seismic vulnerability evaluation of Wenfeng Pagoda in Yangzhou,PRC

The paper provided a very straightforward 3D CAD approach for the speedy evaluation of the seismic vulnerability of existing masonry pagodas. A 3D geometnc model of the structure and automatically calculates the collapse acceleration on a user defined failure mechanism can be applied in the approach. According to the previous numerical research in the field and post-earthquake surveys experience, five possible pagoda failure were provided and researchers also do the test for them. They are vertical splitting, simple overturning at the base, rocking with inclined yield lines and combined rocking and vertical splitting. The procedure is automatized and the direct application of the principle of virtual works -assuming that masonry behaves as a no-tension matenal- allows the immediate evaluation of the horizontal acceleration at collapse. The mechanism associated to the mimmum acceleration, in agreement with the kinematic theorem of limit analysis, is that most probably would occur in reality during a seismic event. The greatest advantage of this approach is mat it can be used even by practitioners not familiar with advanced FE computations and limit analysis concepts. They can define their own mechanisms accordmg to the specificity of the case-study under consideration, directly shaping distinct volumes mside the CAD software and do the relevant analysis. Therefore, this approach has a strong popularization in the research industry of heritage protection of ancient buildings, and can be quickly accepted by most researchers. To appreciate the capabilities of the approach, the paper chose an ancient pagoda located in Yangzhou, Jiangsu province, China Is a case study.