Madras Terrace Construction: Seismic Upgrade of a Historic Composite Floor Slab System

ABSTRACT

Traditional construction techniques get replaced with newer systems over a period of time owing to multiple factors including limitations associated with the system in terms of lateral strength and stiffness. However, those construction techniques, which are sustainable and energy efficient can be revived using modern technologies with minimalist interventions. In this regard, the characterization of the lateral load response of a century-old traditional timber-supported composite brick-floor system in southern India called Madras Terrace floor is carried out. A full-scale experimental model is built and the specimen is upgraded using post-installed anchors to ensure integral action between different components without any changes to materials in the as-built configuration. Experimental characterization using monotonic tests is carried out in the as-built and upgraded configurations and the results are validated using numerical analyses. Results demonstrate a significant increase in strength capacity and a ductile post-peak behaviour for the diaphragm in the upgraded configuration. An analytical model, which closely predicts the system response in the upgraded configuration is formulated and a demonstrative case study for the component level seismic assessment of a typical Madras Terrace floor slab as a sub-system of an existing unreinforced masonry building is carried out.

KEYWORDS:

• Composite floor slab
• diaphragm
• experimental characterization
• lateral load response
• Madras Terrace
• seismic upgrade
• strengthening

Data availability statement

The data that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author, Krishnachandran Sethumadhavan upon reasonable request.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).