Finite element and limit analysis of the large scale model of Mustafa Pasha mosque in Skopje strengthened with FRP

This paper is concerned with the analysis of the seismic performance of the historical monument Mustafa Pasha Mosque in Skopje strengthened with FRP. The study was carried out by means of finite element and limit analysis. The main aim of numerical investigations was to control the response of the structure during the shaking table tests carried out on both the original and reinforced large scale model of the Mosque that was built at the IZIIS Laboratory in Skopje. In order to properly evaluate the structural interactions among the different parts of the specimen, a three dimensional finite element model of the Mosque was implemented. All the main elements of the building were simulated accurately, including the openings and the pendentives connecting the walls with the dome. In addition, a simplified modelling approach based on the limit equilibrium analysis of collapse mechanisms was developed in order to evaluate the ultimate load of both original and reinforced model. The results obtained from finite element and limit analysis were compared with the experimental outcome, showing the differences between the predicted and measured seismic capacity for each phase of the test programme. The evolution of partial and global collapse mechanisms observed during the tests has been also analyzed on the basis of numerical results.