Finite Element Analysis for Building Assessment: Advanced Use and Practical Recommendations

by Paulo B. Lourenço, Angelo Gaetani

Overview

Existing structures represent a heterogeneous category in the global built environment as often characterized by the presence of archaic materials, damage and disconnections, uncommon construction techniques and subsequent interventions throughout the building history. In this scenario, the common linear elastic analysis approach adopted for new buildings is incapable of an accurate estimation of structural capacity, leading to overconservative results, invasive structural strengthening, added intervention costs, excessive interference to building users and possible losses in terms of aesthetics or heritage values. For a rational and sustainable use of the resources, this book deals with advanced numerical simulations, adopting a practical approach to introduce the fundamentals of Finite Element Method, nonlinear solution procedures and constitutive material models. Recommended material properties for masonry, timber, reinforced concrete, iron and steel are discussed according to experimental evidence, building standards and codes of practice. The examples examined throughout the book and in the conclusive chapter support the analyst’s decision-making process toward a safe and efficient use of finite element analysis.

Written primarily for practicing engineers, the book is of value to students in engineering and technical architecture with solid knowledge in the field of continuum mechanics and structural design.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781000563146
Publisher:	CRC Press
Publication date:	05/23/2022
Series:	Assessment, Repair and Strengthening for the Conservation of Structures
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
Pages:	404
File size:	19 MB
Note:	This product may take a few minutes to download.

About the Author

Paulo B. Lourenço is Professor at University of Minho, Portugal. He is Head of the Institute in Sustainability and Innovation in Structural Engineering, and an expert in structural conservation and forensic engineering.

Dr. Angelo Gaetani is a professional structural engineer and consultant in Rome, Italy, who leads structural restoration and seismic retrofit projects. He was a postdoctoral research fellow until 2020 at University of Minho, Portugal.

Table of Contents

1. Fundamentals of the Finite Element Method

2. Nonlinear Structural Analysis

3. Constitutive Models

4. Recommended Properties for Advanced Numerical Analysis

5. Guidelines for Practical Use of Nonlinear Finite Element Analysis