• Smart Structures and Systems
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• v.4 no.2
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• pp.209-220
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• 2008

A methodology for the seismic vulnerability assessment of historical monuments is presented in this paper. The ongoing work has been conducted in Tunisia within the framework of the FP6 European Union project (WIND-CHIME) on the use of appropriate modern seismic protective systems in the conservation of Mediterranean historical buildings in earthquake-prone areas. The case study is the five-century-old Zaouia of Sidi Kassem Djilizi, located downtown Tunis, the capital of Tunisia. Ambient vibration tests were conducted on the case study using a number of force-balance accelerometers placed at selected locations. The Enhanced Frequency Domain Decomposition (EFDD) technique was applied to extract the dynamic characteristics of the monument. A 3-D finite element model was developed and updated to obtain reasonable correlation between experimental and numerical modal properties. The set of parameters selected for the updating consists of the modulus of elasticity in each wall element of the finite element model. Seismic vulnerability assessment of the case study was carried out via three-dimensional time-history dynamic analyses of the structure. Dynamic stresses were computed and damage was evaluated according to a masonry specific plane failure criterion. Statistics on the occurrence, location and type of failure provide a general view for the probable damage level and mode. Results indicate a high vulnerability that confirms the need for intervention and retrofit.

• Journal of Conservation Science
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• v.34 no.1
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• pp.11-21
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• 2018

The result of the study on the origin and preservation status of the 'Gongju Junghakdong old missionary house', the Registered Cultural Property No. 233, reveals that the building was approved on October 23, 1921, and missionary Alice H. Sharp was living in the building until her retirement from her missionary life of 39 years in Korea in 1939. In order to review internal and external preservation status of the building, condition of wood material, the composition of the window, the damage of the wall, and the leaning of the building were examined. In particular, in the case of window facilities, it is necessary to restore it to the original upper and lower sliding window. As a result of investigation of the preservation status of the external facilities, it is necessary to restore the original shape of the staircase and a deck of the building on south western side and the well. In addition, the results of the non-destructive diagnosis of the ground revealed that the building was built on uneven surface layer of 2-5 m thickness and the boundary between the surface layer and the upper part of the weathered rock is inclined following geomorphology. This phenomenon shows that when the water content of the ground increases in the rainy season, the bearing capacity of the ground is lowered, and there is a possibility of uneven subsidence. Especially, landslides may occur in case of heavy rain. Therefore, it is desirable to install a masonry facility at the southwest boundary of the site, and it is recommended to install a drainage facility to ensure rapid drainage.