Sensitivity analysis of the seismic performance of ancient mixed masonry-RC buildings in Lisbon

In the first half of the 20th century, the mixed masonry-RC buildings were introduced in Lisbon; they were typically designed without strictly considering seismic-design requirements. To assess their potential seismic vulnerability, it is crucial to simulate adequately their actual response by: i) explicitly considering their characteristics; ii) identifying the main parameters that affect their seismic performance. In this context, the aim of the paper is twofold. Firstly, the structural elements are characterised in detail. This first study includes the proposal of reference values for the main mechanical parameters, which are defined by combining various data available in the literature adopting a Bayesian approach. Secondly, to identify the main parameters that affect the seismic response of one type of the ancient mixed masonry-RC buildings, a sensitivity analysis is adopted and implemented; within this context, the influence of different material properties and the quality of connections among structural walls are considered.