Masonry-CLT integration for seismic retrofitting of existing buildings: a numerical study

Masonry structures, while durable and commonly used in construction, often exhibit vulnerability when subjected to earthquakes. This weakness can be attributed to several factors such as masonry materials and construction techniques. Firstly, masonry structures are characterized by their rigidity and lack of ductility. Unlike more flexible materials such as steel or reinforced concrete, masonry does not easily deform under stress. This lack of ductility makes it challenging for the structure to absorb and dissipate the energy generated during an earthquake, leading to increased vulnerability. The seismic vulnerability of existing buildings, especially those with unreinforced masonry (URM) walls, poses significant challenges in terms of retrofitting strategies. Among various techniques, the integration of cross-laminated timber (CLT) panels has emerged as a promising solution due to their structural efficiency and seismic performance. Our retrofitting methodology explores two types of linking (master/slave links and rigid links). The integration occurs at the floor level, providing a robust connection between the masonry facade and the CLT facade. The master/slave link allows for relative movement, accommodating any seismic shifts, while the rigid link ensures a more stringent connection. To validate the efficiency of this innovative retrofitting system, a comprehensive numerical study will be undertaken. This study aims to assess how the integrated masonry-CLT facade performs under seismic loading. By applying a nonlinear pushover analysis to the system, we can analyze the structural behavior, stress distribution, and overall performance, and then assess how helpful this system could be.