CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the Study

Philippines is one of the most visited countries in the world not only because of its beautiful

beaches and scenic spots, but also because of its richness in culture and history. Historical places

and landmarks in the country have become a major part of why tourists love exploring it. One of

the most visited and adored aged structures is located in Intramuros, Manila which is the San

Agustin Church. The current San Agustin Church in Intramuros is already the third version of the

originally built San Agustin Church in the area and is the oldest church in the Philippines that was

built four centuries ago. The first version of it was made of bamboo and nipa while the second one

was constructed out of wood. Both of the structures were destroyed by a fire. The third one which

is currently rising in the same spot as the two is made of stone, which makes it the strongest one

among its three versions. Murty, n.d. stated that structures constructed with masonry materials are

the most brittle and most vulnerable type of buildings when hit by earthquakes.

The Philippine archipelago is located between two opposing subduction zones -- that of

the Eurasian Plate also known as South China Plate which moves beneath Luzon along the Manila

Trench and the Philippine Trench. Philippines lies along the Pacific Ring of Fire which means that

the country is prone to earthquakes and other seismic activities as well as volcanic activities.

According to (Sembrano, 2017) San Agustin Church was already hit by a series of medium

sized earthquakes that shook Batangas and its neighboring provinces and damaged several

structures, including century old churches in Batangas City and Taal.

 Due to the consideration of the several earthquakes as well as the wars it had survived, the

group decided to conduct a seismic assessment on the said church towards an optimum retrofitting

recommendation. San Agustin Church must undergo non - destructive tests regarding its current

strength state in preparation for the upcoming major quakes, especially the“big one”. Since, it is

historical, the materials used to build San Agustin Church was not reinforced yet compared to the

structures built nowadays. The type of materials our ancestors used before are not as resistant to

natural calamities as the materials used now. Also, the tensile strength of the materials used before

when they constructed the structures long ago are lower than now because no building code to

serve as a guide was present at that time.

The seismic assessment of the San Agustin Church will be possible through the utilization

of the Capacity Spectrum Method. If the seismic assessment will be done in the said structure, the

hazards present in the church and the optimum retrofitting recommendation for it will be

determined.

1.2 Objectives of the Study

1.3.1 General

To assess the vulnerability of San Agustin Church in Intramuros, Manila utilizing

Capacity Spectrum Method for optimum retrofitting recommendation

 1.3.2 Specific

● To create structural model of San Agustin Church

● To utilize Capacity Spectrum Method in the determination of the building’s

structural integrity state

● To simulate selected ground motion data to the building: thus identifying the

performance of the building

● To construct a set of seismic fragility curves in assessing the building

● To establish the optimum retrofitting scheme using Multi – Criteria Decision

Analysis (MCDA) – Analytical Hierarchy Progress (AHP).

1.3 Statement of the Problem

The main problem of this study that needs to be addressed is the determination of the

optimum retrofitting recommendation that fits the San Agustin Church.

1. How helpful will the structural model be in determining the integrity of the church?

2. What is the integrity state of the Church using Capacity Spectrum Method?

3. What will be the performance of the San Agustin Church in terms seismic analysis using

ground motion data?

4. How can fragility curve help in assessing the building’s seismic integrity?

5. What will be the optimum retrofitting scheme recommendation?

1.4 Significance of the Study

This study may serve as a reference for the future researchers who as well aim to have a

seismic assessment of the San Agustin Church and other structures built a long time ago and who

aim to know the optimum retrofitting technique that can be used to improve the structure’s strength
and integrity. It is relevant to assess structures in the country especially the aged ones because

Philippines is located along the Pacific Ring of Fire and Metro Manila is lying along the West

Valley Fault which makes the city vulnerable to earthquakes. The data that will be gathered by the

group may serve a basis of comparison to the data -- structure’s integrity state, performance of the

building, seismic fragility curves of the church, and the optimum retrofitting technique that can be

utilized for the strength improvement of the building that will be acquired by future researchers.

Not only the future researchers will benefit from this study, but also the National Commission for

Culture and the Arts and United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization

(UNESCO) in the reason that these agencies are in charge of the welfare of structures that has a

great significance in the country. These agencies will be given ideas on how to maintain and

preserve San Agustin Church as well as ideas on how to avoid its collapse even during natural

calamities especially major earthquakes. Materials that were used hundreds of years ago were not

subjected to testing so this study might help to know whether the strength of the materials that they

used is enough to withstand large amount of loads that may be applied to the structure or not.

1.5 Scope and Delimitation

The area of this study is the San Agustin Church in Intramuros, Manila. It was chosen as

the area of study because of its age and because of its capacity to withstand the earthquakes that

occurred in the past as well as the bombings during the World War II. It was the only structure left

rising during the bombings that occurred during the war.

This research will focus on the determination of the structural integrity of the members

located at the masonry part of the church. There are two non - destructive tests that will be used in

this research to gather the material properties of the desired member -- rebound hammer test and
rebar scanner test. AUTOCAD will be the software to be used in making the As-Built plans --

architectural and structural plans of the church. The structural model will only be composed of

critical members that were determined by the said non-destructive tests. ETABS and SAP2000

will be the software to be used in the making and simulation of the structural model when exposed

to earthquakes. MATLAB will be used to generate an equation from the generated data gathered

after performing the simulation. The equation will be input in Microsoft Excel to generate the

fragility curves considering only shear as the module of failure which is the basis of the seismic

assessment . Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis-Analytical Hierarchy Process (MCDA-AHP) will

be the method to be used in choosing the best or economical scheme of retrofitting that can be

applied.

1.6 Conceptual Framework

 Figure 1 represents the conceptual framework of this study. It will start with the review of

related literature regarding seismic assessment, history of San Agustin Church, Fragility curves

and all other articles that might help in the study. Next will be the Ground Motion Data gathering

that will be acquired from PHIVOLCS and the Incorporated Research Institutions for Seismology

(IRIS). The ground motion data will be input and processed in SAP 2000. Next is the creation of

As-Built Architectural and Structural plans of the area of study -- San Agustin Church. These

plans will be used in the analysis of the structure as to what area of the Church must the retrofitting

be best applied.

For the process part, it is where the tests will be conducted, software that will be helpful to

the study will be utilized, and also it is in this part that the analysis of all gathered data will be

done.
 In the output part of the conceptual framework, it is where data and results is generated.

The desired outputs are the fragility curves of the structure, its current status as well as its status

after application of the optimum retrofitting recommendation wherein the retrofitting technique

will be considered in its optimum state if it is economical and most effective for the church. Lastly,

is the identification of the threshold capacity of the church. Threshold capacity is the maximum

strength that a structure has before it fails.

1.7 Definition of Terms

Retrofitting - a rehabilitation technique that aims to strengthen a structure and reduce its

vulnerability to earthquake (Gorai, 2016).

Optimum - the most desirable result determined under specific conditions

Ground Motion Data - data in which the fragility curves will be generated from. It is a recorded

data of the movement of the earth's surface due to earthquakes or explosions.

Fragility Curves - the curve plotted between earthquake intensity and damage grade in terms of

the conditional cumulative probability of reaching a certain damage state

SAP 2000 - a general-purpose civil-engineering software most suitable for the analysis and design

of any type of structural system (retrieved from: https://wiki.csiamerica.com, n.d.).

CHAPTER 2

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

This chapter focuses on the different studies related to the thesis topic which will help

support the results to be gathered. This chapter involves the past and latest journals, books, research

studies, and news articles that will help in familiarization to this study.
2.1 The San Agustin Church

The San Agustin Church located in Intramuros, Manila is already the third version of it.

The church was rebuilt three times because of the disasters it went through (Santos, 2014).

Moreover, according to (Aquino, 2019), the church currently on the site is a large stone Baroque

construction that was completely constructed in 1606. Not even World War II - which destroyed

the structures located in Intramuros damaged the church. It already surpassed a lot of earthquakes

and numerous man - made disasters. The San Agustin Church was the only building left strong

intact after the disturbance of Intramuros, Manila during World War II. Because of its continuous

reconstructions everytime it is destructed, it has become the oldest church in the Philippines. The

San Agustin Church is now considered by the government and UNESCO as a historical landmark.

2.2 DATA NEEDED IN THE ASSESSMENT OF THE BUILDING

2.2.1 Fragility Curves

Hemalatha et. al (2017) defined fragility curve as an effective tool for vulnerability

assessment of structural systems.

2.2.1.1 Fragility Curves in Assessing a Building

On the basis of advanced connections, the seismic stability of the pre-established concrete

path is then measured. Such relations arise from the complex study of nonlinear finite elements.

Fragility curves reflects the possibility of structural damage caused by various soil shakes
(Nateghi-A, F & Shahsavar, V., 2004). The fragility of surfaces was designed to represent the

likelihood of meeting a given level of damages for any ground movement. The current methods

for modeling systemic seismic susceptibility frequently represent a single variable in ground

improvement. Nonetheless, the influence of a seismic reaction in the system cannot be fully

represented by a single parameter. A change from one to two parameters of ground motion is

expected to lead to a substantial reduction of a dispersion of the fragility variable (Seyedi, D., et.

al., February 2009).

2.2.1.2 Vulnerability Assessment Using Fragility Curves (Hemalatha, G. & Muthupriya, P.,

2017)

Fragility curves are widely used in the pre – earthquake disaster planning and post –

earthquake recovery. The level of vulnerability of structures to earthquake and its probability to

fail because of the occurrence of such hazard is identified through the generation of fragility

curves. It states the possibility of structures to exceed a certain level of damage due to intensity of

ground shaking. The gathered data from fragility curves can be utilized in the analyzation,

evaluation, and in recommendation for the improvement of the seismic performance of structures

– non – structural and structural elements. It is utilized to determine if a structure needs to be

retrofitted after being exposed to disasters especially earthquakes because theses curves can be a

medium for comparison for the initial and post state of a structure. It is highly recommended to

generate fragility curves as it is an effective tool for vulnerability assessment of structural systems.

In general, fragility curves are used for emergency management and for the estimation of losses

after an earthquake.

2.2.1.3 Analytically Derived Fragility Curves and Damage Assessment of Masonry Buildings
 Fragility curves play an important role in the estimation of risk from prospect earthquakes

and in the prediction of future earthquakes’ economic impact to structures. These curves can be

used by national agencies as references in planning for emergency response while it can be a basis

for the estimation of the overall loss after an earthquake by insurance companies.

Fragility curves are utilized to lessen hazards that earthquakes may cause through the

improvement of seismic codes. Fragility curves represent the probability that a structure passes a

stated state of damage as a result of a parameter that defines the seismic intensity. These curves

are generated through simulation

2.2.1.4 Development of Empirical Fragility Curves in Earthquake Engineering considering

Nonspecific Damage Information

In order to evaluate the possibility of increasing a certain degree of damage as per the

magnitude of such an earthquake, we can consider fragility curves in earthquake engineering.

Since the losses to the fragility curves are normally entangled, the possibilities hypothesis is used

for generating fragility details from seismic risk data in a special type of proof theory for situated

intervals (Kim, J.J, December 13, 2018).

2.2.1.4 Development of Fragility Curves for RC Buildings using HAZUS method (Patel, V. R. and

Vasavada, M, May 20116)

Earthquakes in various parts of the country are causing damage to dangerous structures and

deaths. The assessment of seismic building vulnerability before an earthquake is therefore crucial

to prevent building damage and loss of life. The structure’s seismic weakness can be assessed with

a fragility curve. Fragility curves can be used to characterize the possibility that a certain damage
is exceeded. Fragility curves are possible to develop depending on data source and form of

analytical or experimental methods. Fragility curve development that use the analytical method:

guidelines provided by a technical HAZUS manual are used for the creation of fragility curves.

2.2.2 Capacity Spectrum Method

Capacity Spectrum Method (CSM) can be used for a number of purposes, such as speedy

assessment of a large inventory of structures, validation of plans of new buildings, analysis of the

existing building system to determine harm states and comparison of damage situations in

buildings with different soil movement amplitudes (Freeman, S.A, n.d). The capability continuum

test has measured the seismic ability of the system to withstand the earthquake strength

(Mazumder, R., October 2014). The method compares the structural potential (in the shape of a

pushover curve) to the structural demands (in the context of the response spectra) (Freeman, S.A,

n.d). Nonlinear static pushover study was conducted to assess the effects of the frame buildings

during potential earthquakes in accordance with ATC 40 guidance. The efficiency spectrum test

provided the output level. In BNBC 1993 the response spectrum was transformed into acceleration

request spectra in order to assess reinforced concrete frame efficiency (Mazumder, R., 2014).

2.2.3 Ground Motion Data

For buildings, bridges and dams, the methods of estimating strong mmotions data from

ground sites and instrumented structures are in place to assess structural harm potential. Assessing

data from instrumented buildings using electronic analytical software approaches. The details on
(1) skills and the time needed to perform the operation is given for each process; (2) architectural

modeling structures and data available, (3) procedures to be taken, and (4) sample implementations

and presented. Such techniques for the analysis of bridges and reservoirs and other actual-time

methods for the estimation of hazard risk of bridges and embankments are addressed (Rojahn, C.

et. al., n. d.).

2.4 NON – DESTRUCTIVE TESTS

2.4.1 Nondestructive Testing and Damage Assessment of Masonry Structures

Mainstream use of several methods to evaluate construction of masonry have been the

result of recent advances in non-destructive test technological. In qualitative condition surveys,

and for detection of internal features such as vacuum or areas of distress, non‐destructive methods

such as rebound strength, stress wave propagation, impact-echo, radar penetration of surfaces,

tomography and infrared thermography, are useful. For many assessment approaches, standardized

methods exist and efforts are underway with the councils of ASTM and RILEM, to develop further

testing standards. Tools like rebound stiffness can only be done relatively easily and tests can be

grasped locally. Many systems need proper preparation and diligent execution in order to produce

useful results (Schuller, M.P., July 2006).

2.4.2 Rebound Hammer Test

 The rebound hammer test is a non - destructive test done to determine the strength of the

concrete in a structure. It identifies the integrity of the sample in a simple way. Comparing it to

conventional crushing tests, rebound hammer test is more economical and versatile. The rebound

hammer test is widely used for testing concrete. The manufacturers often provide calibrated curves

that shows the relation of rebound number of concrete and compressive strength (Roknuzzaman,

2017). Rebound Hammer Test is much reliable non - destructive test and it fits well as a method

in the assessment of the strength of the concrete. Due to its low cost and simple operation, it is

popular to many (Gupta, et. al., 2015). Also, this non - destructive test indicates the compressive

strength of concrete rapidly and with convenience (retrieved from:

https://theconstructor.org/concrete/rebound-hammer-test-concrete). This test aims to identify the

compressive strength of concrete through showing the connection between the rebound index and

the compressive strength as well as to evaluate the uniformity and quality of the concrete based on

standard specifications (retrieved from: https://theconstructor.org/, 2019).

2.4.3 Rebound Hammer

According to (Roknuzzaman, 2017), rebound hammers are convenient to use in testing

stones and bricks aside from concrete . The rebound hammer is also called as Schmidt hammer

that consists of a spring controlled mass that slides on a plunger within a tubular housing.

2.5 SOFTWARES

2.5.1 SAP 2000

SAP 2000 is a software used for modeling, analyzation, designing, optimizing and

simulation of small simple to large complicated of any type of structure system. SAP 200 is the
simplest but yet, most productive software that can be used for structural analysis and design

needs (retrieved from: https://www.csiamerica.com/products/sap2000, n.d.).

2.5.2 MATLAB

MATLAB is a programming software that has been made specially for scientists and

engineers. MATLAB uses a unique language which is a matrix-based language that will enable

the users to create models and application, to develop algorithm and analyze data that the other

software having a hard time to assess (retrieved from :

https://www.mathworks.com/discovery/what-is-matlab.html n,d)

2.6 RETROFITTING TECHNIQUES

2.6.1 Strengthening/Retrofitting Techniques on Unreinforced Masonry Structure/Element

Subjected to Seismic Loads: A Literature Review (Wang C., Sarhosis V., & Nikitas N., 2018)

Structures that were built decades ago were still unreinforced. It is a common factor for old

structures to be unreinforced. Up until now, a lot of masonry structures still exist and are even

known all over the country and even all over the world. Many of the country’s heritage places are

made of masonry. These masonry structures were studied and reported to have high vulnerability

to different strong external loadings such as loads acting on the structures caused by earthquakes,

strong wind, and blast. Hence, different types and ways of strengthening masonry structures were

discovered and developed. The fundamental concept of strengthening or retrofitting approaches

is to lessen the effect of the external loading, improve the capacity of individual elements to

withstand loads, and to improve the integrity of masonry structure.

Presented below are the different types of retrofitting techniques that can be used for

masonry structures. The advantages and disadvantages of each method are also presented.

2.6.1.1 Reduction of Earthquake Forces – Base Isolation Technique

Base isolation is done through uncoupling of the masonry building and its foundation by

placement of flexible pads in between them. Placement of flexible pads help prevent or at least

reduce earthquake motions from transferring through the building as shown in Fig. (2).

Fig. (2) Base Isolation Technique

Flexible pads also help in minimizing the shaking that the superstructure will undergo when

the ground shakes. The base isolation technique is most applicable in low to mid-rise masonry

buildings specifically for the heritages of historical importance in the reason that it can maintain

their default appearance of the structure unlike the conventional rehabilitation that would be

destructive to the aesthetic of the buildings. This technique retrofitted was already used in an old

masonry chapel building, which used the laminated rubber bearing and damper together.
Advantages of Base Isolation Technique:

· It could withstand seismic loading and keep its architectural feature at the same time.

· It is also applicable to heavy non-structural monolithic objects, such as the pinnacles

and not only to structural masonry buildings.

· Best technique for newly built buildings as the construction of the flexible pad would

be easier.

· It can preserve the authenticity of the structures being retrofitted.

Disadvantages of Base Isolation Technique:

· Base Isolation is difficult to implement under the existing building.

· The mechanical work of this technique would be difficult which may destroy the whole

structure out of a sudden.

· The utilization of this technique is expensive because the installation of the hybrid base

isolation will cost as much as 3% of the total cost of the building.

· It cannot be applied to tall buildings.

2.6.1.2 To Upgrade the Element Strength

For the masonry structures or masonry bearing walls, including the vertical and horizontal

masonry elements, to upgrade the element strength can increase the load resistance of the entire

structure. So, improvement in the chances of a masonry structure or masonry element to withstand
unforeseen external loadings. This idea is often applied in the strength increase of masonry

structures.

2.6.1.3 Surface Treatment

Surface treatment include attachment of strength increasing materials to the actual structure

and tied together with the use of mortar or steel links. The shotcrete and Ferro cement approach is

most often used in surface treatment is.

Shotcrete is applied by spraying shotcrete over a mesh of wire installed on the surface of

the masonry wall. This is shown in Fig. 3. In9 general, the thickness of the overlay ranges from

70mm to 150mm. The retrofitting of shotcrete will be developed if the substrate surface is

particularly rough after removal of loose or deteriorate portions.

Fig. (3) Surface treatment (a) Shotcrete (b) Ferro cement

The Ferro cement consists of closely spaced multiple layers of hardware embedded in a

high strength (15-30MPa) cement mortar layer (10-15mm thickness).

Advantage of Surface Treatment Technique

 · The surface treatment method can significantly improve the strength and stiffness

of masonry structure.

Disadvantages of Surface Treatment Technique

· This technique is only suitable for the vertical masonry element and it will be

harmful if being utilized on the horizontal masonry elements of buildings like

arches.

· This method is time - consuming during the application.

· It destroys the original aesthetics of the structure.

2.6.1.4 Mortar Joint Treatment

At times, the masonry units in the buildings are still of good quality but the mortar is poor

or it was not fully filled. In situations like these, the mortar could be replaced or refilled by new

bonding material with higher strength. Grout injection and re-pointing are the most often used

techniques. The effectiveness of this technique can be improved if it is used in combination with

other techniques conducted a study by combining FRP rods and re-pointing technique on masonry

structure. Mortar Joint Treatment is most suitable for masonry heritage buildings because even

after the application of this technique, the authenticity of the structure is preserved.

Advantages of Mortar Joint Treatment

· It is practical to implement this retrofitting technique because of its minimal

cost and easy application.

 · This method is sustainable

· This technique is effective in restoring the initial stiffness and strength of

masonry.

· It preserves the authenticity of the structure that was retrofitted.

Disadvantage of Mortar Joint Treatment

· No significant improvement in the initial stiffness or strength.

2.6.1.5 External Steel Reinforcement

This approach is applicable for the weak masonry structures or the structures that need to

be improved remarkably. In this retrofitting technique, steel elements are installed next to the

original masonry element, which might be tied together or not. This steel system has large stiffness

that stops the propagation of cracks in the masonry wall. The stronger steel system carries the

external load while the initial masonry system works as the structural element. When this technique

was utilized in the past, the results showed that the lateral strength in in-plane direction of the

reinforced wall was improved about 4.5 times its original lateral strength.

Advantages of External Steel Reinforcement Technique

· It is effective in improving the masonry structure’s resistance, ductility, and energy

absorption.
 · It is very effective in improving the load resistance of a structure as steel is a strong

retrofitting material.

Disadvantages of External Steel Reinforcement Technique

· The appearance of steel will change the aesthetics of the original masonry structure.

· The implementation of this technique will cost high.

2.6.1.6 Post – tensioning

This retrofitting technique is done for the improvement of the strength and ductility of the

lateral load resisting frame of the structure. It uses pre – stressed reinforcements which are placed

along the vertical elements of the structure. In the post-tensioning strengthening method, the pre-

stressed reinforcements are placed along the vertical elements for the sake of improving the

strength and ductility of the lateral load resisting frame of the structure. This method increases the

strength of the masonry structure up to its maximum strength. This method is utilized for the

improvement of the seismic performance of RC frame infilled with masonry wall.

Advantages of Post – Tensioning Method

· The strength and stiffness were increased remarkably

· The shear capacity and ductility can be improved significantly

· It improves the ability of the masonry to resist cracking.

· It can double the masonry panel strength.

Disadvantages of Post – Tensioning Method

 · It has no effect on the ductility of the reinforced masonry panel.

· The ability of energy dissipation is also increased remarkably.

2.7 OTHER RELATED LITERATURES

2.7.1 Are our Country Ready for the Big One?

According to (Maclang, A., 2017), Earthquake is a natural calamity that people need to be

prepared on. The string seismic tremors that have shaken the country have created the urgency of

the restorations to brace ourselves for a possible seizure and reevaluate the structures if it is still

secured.

Though these tremors, according to Phivolcs, were in no way associated with notorious

West Valley Fault whose activity was referred to as a potential cause of the “Big One,” the general

perception of earthquake was successfully revived by these tremors.

Two flaws overlap with the Manila’s major cities, according to this specific report. The

Westernn fracture of the canyon passes through Marikina, Quezon, Pasig, Taguig, Makati,

Mandaluyong and Muntinlupa. The first is the Manila Trench, a gap on the coast of Manila Bay.

The latest earthquakes at Batangas are triggered by the Manila Trench activity, according to

Phivolcs.

2.7.2 Seismic Assessment of the Vulnerability of Existing Buildings

This method is dependent on the comparison of maximum lateral displacement and

ductility demands with their corresponding capacities in order to evaluate the seismic exposure of

the structure during severe earthquakes and ground movement. The two methods used during the
analysis of structures are global seismic deformation and local seismic deformation. Global

seismic deformation demands are obtained through computation of equivalent non - linear single

degree - of - freedom system through integral deformation. With the pre - computed relationship

of the local and global deformation demands that are imposed in the building, the local deformation

demands is determined.

This method is advantageous in the reason that the inelastic behavior is strictly put into

consideration in the analysis and approximation of both deformation demands and capabilities.

2.7.3 Structural Integrity Assessment of an Uncompleted Reinforced Concrete Structure

The structural integrity evaluation of an existing structure was put through to determine its

dependability to addition of load applied while accomplishing its intended use. This assessment is

done through different non - destructive tests. The structural assessment of structures is done to

reveal the cause of the deterioration of building blocks and elements. Parameters such as

deflection, crucial distress, and concrete spalling are involved in the structural integrity

assessment. It was determined that low slab strength was one of the contributing factors of the

structure deterioration and distress. Negligence to drain water from structures may also contribute

to the structure’s worse condition and may lead to incapability of the building to resist future loads

that will be applied on the structure. The usage of masonry materials is another influence on the

presence of cracks in some parts of the structure. There must be enough compressive strength and

good concrete used during the construction must have the ability to maintain its strength and

integrity for a long time.

2.7.4 Cultural Heritage Monuments and Historical Buildings: Conservation Works and

Structural Retrofitting
 The safety of historical structures and constructions must always be taken into

consideration to assure long - term actions and in several cases have been proved. The evaluation

of the present state of the structure can be done through having all the necessary knowledge based

on historical notes, technological survey, non-destructive testing procedures and the interpretation

of crack and decay patterns.

2.7.5 Assessment and Retrofitting of Old Reinforced Concrete Buildings with an Open

Ground Story

The strengthening of the weak ground, the option of low cost and the continuous use of the

structure throughout its seismic renovation, alone, can eliminate the obvious weakness without

moving the issue towards the above-mentioned story and thereby make such buildings at least as

solid as those without a weak early floor. The only realistic retrofitting alternative which could be

appropriate to the owners of such buildings is the partial reinforcement by interfering only on open

floors, in contrast with a full strengthening to conform with current new building standards because

of: (a) low intervention costs; and, (b) continued use during retrofitting. Building has been

reinforced with steel braces in properly chosen soil floors and their quality has been tested under

the same earthquake package (Antonopoulos, T. & Anagnostopoulos S., n.d.)

2.7.6 Protection of Cultural Heritage Buildings Against Earthquakes From a Sensitized

Structural Engineering Perspective

Historical building design methods were mostly based on basic geometrical rules on

stability and measurements of seismic risk. This condition culminated in building massive

buildings with big, yet still low seismic quality structural elements due to persistent destruction.

This has left historic buildings extremely vulnerable to earthquakes, which have triggered partial
or complete collapses. Appropriate technological solutions are apparent in order to preserve them

(Preciado, A. et. al., January 2017).

2.7.7 Seismic Retrofit of the Historic Building Structures

Historic buildings are local historical properties worth saving. Design techniques and

construction materials and practices used in the construction process of these structures are often

radically different from their current counterparts, and their functional reconstruction and

restoration poses some engineering challenges to professional designers. The traditional structural

characteristics of historical buildings have to be given special attention in consideration of its

structural rigidity, durability, and ductility, their evolving structural dimensions over the years,

accurate methodologies to test these specific structural attributes and their design consequences

for the structural retrofitting and risk mitigation. Build code viewpoints and alternate quality

oriented solutions to achieve stability, tensile efficiency and requirements quality oriented

solutions to achieve stability, tensile efficiency and requirements for energy dissipation are mixed

(Guh, T., et. al., April 2006).

2.7.8 Determining Reinforcement Coverage Using an Electromagnetic Rebar Detector

The strengthening of the reinforced concrete frameworks is an important element.

Positioning an important element. Positioning errors, thickness errors and covering errors may

create defects. Thus, reinforcing must be properly implemented. Even if the common method in

detecting reinforcement in an electrical identification, it has been barely addressed in literary

science. The main reason is the absence of the visual test result- the most prominent research
results have so far been photos of concrete ground lines and modifications to construction technical

drawings. The approach has been extended by new sensors, with visual measuring reports and a

more precise estimation of reinforcement size, including neighboring reinforcement spacing

corrections. Previously, significant progress was made in strategies to find reinforcement.

2.7.9 National Disaster Management Guidelines, Seismic Retrofitting of Deficient Buildings

and Structures

Almost hundred percent of earthquake related fatalities in India happened at a non-

engineered structures. Retrofitting the said structures is by far the critical move in India in

earthquake disaster mitigation. Any retrofitting scheme is accepted as long as it is shown by

professional engineers and it meets the required standard. Prescriptive retrofitting schemes should

be used in different areas like construction of public structures that are mostly non engineered

structures (2014).

2.7.10 Strengthening/Retrofitting Techniques on Unreinforced Masonry Structure Element

Subjected to Seismic Loads: A Literature Review

Nowadays masonry structures are still being used and popular despite being extremely

vulnerable in seismic load, wind load and other impact load like blast and many more. The basic

principle of the reinforcement/retrofitting method is to minimize the impact of existing load,

increase the load-carrying capacity of the individual component and enhance the quality of the

masonry framework. The most effective approach in various cases is to be found by contrasting

and analyzing the advantages and disadvantages of each process. The effectiveness of enhancing

that reinforcement technique depends on the material that designed the original building and on

the method used to repair it means in choosing the retrofitting scheme should be based on the
factors stated earlier. If the solution followed for a certain type of structure is proven to be effective

and economical, it could not be generalized or adapted to other structures. The sampling of

methods to reinforce should therefore be focused on the most significant factors (Wang, C. et. al.

, July 2018).

CHAPTER 3

METHODOLOGY

The researchers will use quantitative research methodology. The different types of methods

used for the analysis of the ground motion data and the procedures for each method are discussed

in this chapter.

3.1 Research Design

The vulnerability of San Agustin Church in Intramuros, Manila to earthquakes will be

assessed. The process of this study will start from the gathering of the ground motion data that will

be gathered from the websites: IRIS and PEER. The initial state of the structure will be obtained

from the concern administration with regards to the buildings located in Intramuros, Manila. An

As – built plan will be made prior to the conduct of non – destructive tests – rebound hammer test

and rebar scanner test. Through the tests done, the data for the initial state of the church will be

obtained. After acquiring needed data, mathematical model of the structure will be created with
the usage of the SAP 2000 – an analysis and design software. The next process will be the

simulation using the ground motion data. Afterwards, different parameters derived from the

simulation will be utilized to generate fragility curves. The fragility curves will be the basis of the

optimum retrofitting scheme recommendation for the structure.

3.2 Instrumentation

3.2.1 Rebound Hammer

Rebound hammer also known as Schmidt Hammer is used in the rebound hammer test

which is conducted to identify the compressive strength of concrete, stone, and bricks as well as

its quality. It was developed by Ernst Schmidt in 1948. It is used in the evaluation of existing

structures without having to alter the original samples. Though this tool is convenient to use, it

provides only estimated results and not the absolute data of the material’s strength. It uses spring

to measure the hardness of concrete surface with the use of rebound principles (Roknuzzaman et.

al., 2017).

3.2.2 Rebar Scanner

Rebar scanners are used to locate the position of steel reinforcement bars embedded in an

existing structure before it will be drilled. This instrument can also measure the depth of concrete

cover. The use of rebar scanner is one of the fastest and easiest ways to detect rebars in concrete.
(Hasan, 2014). For reinforcement bars made of glass fiber, post tension or penetration strand

requires systems of Ground Penetrating Radar for proper location (McCurdy, et. al., 2017).

3.2.3 Total Station

Total station is used in the field of surveying. It consists of an EDM, Theodolite, and

Microprocessor combined into one. It was designed to measure slant distances, elevation in both

topographic and geodetic works, as well as to identify horizontal and vertical angles. The data

gathered are stored in the internal memory of the device. The data can be downloaded from the

internal memory of the total station and then transferred to a computer and application software

which is used to calculate the results and generate a map of the surveyed area (Singh, 2019).

3.2.4 Laser Tape Measure

Laser tape measures, also known as laser distance measures are modern instruments used

to alter the traditional tape measure. It is a device which is more time - saving to use. This device

provides accurate readings even over large distances. (retrieved from:

https://www.onepointsurvey.com, 2019). This laser tape measuring tool offers easy operation. It

automatically measures to where the laser is pointed (retrieved from:

https://www.engineersupply.com, n.d.).

3.3 Testing and Procedures

3.3.1 Non - Destructive Test Methods

Non - destructive tests are test or procedure to evaluate and get the status of masonry

structure without causing damage. Direct material properties measurements cannot be obtained in
this type of test but the tenuous relationship instead that can be translated into the said properties

(retrieved from:https://www.twi-global.com, n,d)

3.3.1.1 Rebound Hammer Test

In rebound hammer test, it is made sure that the rebound hammer is properly calibrated.

The plunger of the hammer will be pressed at 90 degree angle against the surface of the member

with a specific energy. The rebound will happen after the hammer is pushed. In a few seconds the

rebound hammer will show a rebound value which will be used in determining the compressive

strength of the concrete by the use of conversation chart. After 6 trials, take the mean value and

that value will be the rebound index. (retrieved from : https://theconstructor.org/concrete/rebound-

hammer-test-concrete-ndt/2837/, n d)

3.3.1.2 Rebar Scanner/Metal Scanner

After calibrating the rebar detector, slowly slide sideways to determine the location of the

rebar. If the positive sign shows it means you are sliding towards the rebars and vice versa. After

determining the location of the rebar, slide up and down to pinpoint the coverage of the rebar

(depth) in the specific member.

3.4 Sampling Method

Convenience Sampling will be used. The researcher will select what is convenient both

critical member and the ground motion date based on their convenience.

3.4.2 Ground Motion Data

 The researchers will use Ground Motion Data from the Philippines and other countries

which comes from PHIVOLCS and other sources. The modelled structure that has been created

will be subjected to the selected Ground Motion Data for simulation.

3.5 Softwares

3.5.1 AUTODESK AUTOCAD

As-built survey or physical survey is conducted using total station and laser tape measure.

Next the gathered data will be plot into a software called AUTOCAD to make the Structural and

if necessary Architectural plans.

3.5.2 SAP 2000

The As-built plans that comes from the AUTOCAD will be imported to SAP2000 to make

a model of the structure. Next is assign the location and properties of the critical points which has

been gathered by the Non-destructive test. Perform the basic analysis. Select the ground motion

data and remove the loads and pushover data to run the time history analysis.

3.5.3 MATLAB

The generated data from the simulation will be input at this software to generate an

equation which will be used to generate the fragility curve

3.5.4 Microsoft Excel

The fragility curve will be generated at the Microsoft Excel by inputting the equation that

comes from the MATLAB software.