Finite Element Analysis of Ground Floor level of Old Unreinforced Masonry Senate Hall building using macro modelling approach

Abstract Finite element (FE) macro 3D modelling of the unreinforced masonry (URM) wall of ground floor (GF) is evaluated for static and dynamic behavior and compared with an actual in-situ condition of the building. The Senate Hall (SH) building is built in 1915 (108 years old), designed from Indo-Saracenic style of architecture. In-situ survey and geometrical drawing of the building is used for entire modelling the unreinforced masonry load bearing (thickness 1.07m) and the partition walls (0.91m to 0.31m) on the ground floor level. A site visit of the building has been answered several unknown features such as geometrical plan, construction techniques, mechanical properties, architecture style, damaging maps (cracks, failures, damages, collapse, etc.), strengthening, renovation, retrofitting and actual conditions of the SH building. The major cracks and material deformities are observed in load bearing walls and arches. Most of the construction material deteriorated due to water seepage, moisture, and atmospheric behavior, etc. The finite element technique has been used for built 3D model of entire GF level of the SH building using macro modelling approach. The mechanical properties have been evaluated from non-destructive tests performed on the masonry and stone materials of the building after used approximate values. Static analysis results show the maximum stress and deformation response of the GF level for its self-weight and live load. Dynamic modal analysis results are also shown. Finally, simulation results of the GF level have been compared with the actual in-situ survey condition of the SH building.