IN-PERSON London. Section B

Abstract

The seismic vulnerability of historic Algerian urban structures is a critical concern, particularly given the prevalence of low and medium height unreinforced masonry (URM) buildings within these urban nuclei. Despite their cultural significance, these structures have been identified as highly vulnerable to seismic events. Consequently, effective risk assessment and mitigation strategies are imperative to safeguard these architectural treasures. This study employs fragility functions and a vulnerability index method to offer innovative insights into seismic risk assessment. By utilizing fragility functions, which probabilistically estimate seismic losses, the research identifies vulnerable elements within URM buildings. Furthermore, vulnerability functions derived through the vulnerability index method enhance the precision of risk assessment. A focal point of the study is the Belouizdad district, providing localized insights into seismic threats within the city of Algiers. Through seismic scenarios of varying intensities (VII to X), the research elucidates the potential impact of earthquakes on the district’s historic structures. By combining empirical data with advanced analytical techniques, this study contributes to the development of targeted seismic reduction policies, crucial for preserving Algeria’s architectural heritage amidst seismic vulnerabilities.