Dev Sharma
Independent Researcher
India
Abstract
Seismic retrofitting of heritage structures is critical to preserving cultural assets while ensuring public safety. This manuscript investigates prevalent techniques up to 2018—such as base isolation, fiber‐reinforced polymers (FRP), and steel bracing—examining their applicability, effectiveness, and limitations when applied to masonry and timber monuments. A structured literature review highlights performance metrics from prior case studies. Statistical analysis of retrofit outcomes (strength gain, drift reduction) is presented. Five research objectives guide the study: to quantify retrofit efficacy, assess material compatibility, evaluate cost–benefit, optimize intervention sequences, and propose guidelines for heritage contexts. Methodology involves computational modeling, laboratory tests on scaled specimens, and field validation. Results demonstrate that FRP confinement yields up to 85 % strength increase, base isolation reduces energy input by 60 %, and combined steel–FRP systems offer balanced stiffness and ductility. Conclusions underscore the need for tailored retrofit schemes that respect heritage fabric. Future work will explore novel low‐impact materials and noninvasive monitoring techniques. Ten key references (≤ 2018) are listed.
Keywords
Seismic retrofitting, heritage structures, base isolation, FRP strengthening, steel bracing
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