Structural Evaluation of the Historical Bridge in the Yukhari Bash Architectural Reserve: A Comparative Finite Element Analysis Before and After Restoration

Dinç E., Ateş T., GÖKDEMİR A., Aksoy Işık R.

Mathematics, cilt.13, sa.20, 2025 (SCI-Expanded) identifier

  • Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
  • Cilt numarası: 13 Sayı: 20
  • Basım Tarihi: 2025
  • Doi Numarası: 10.3390/math13203254
  • Dergi Adı: Mathematics
  • Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, Academic Search Premier, Aerospace Database, Communication Abstracts, Metadex, zbMATH, Directory of Open Access Journals, Civil Engineering Abstracts
  • Anahtar Kelimeler: finite element analysis (FEA), historic masonry bridges, lime-based mortar, seismic performance assessment, structural restoration
  • Gazi Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet

Özet

This study investigates the structural behavior of the historical bridge located in the “Yukhari Bash” National Architectural Reserve Zone in Sheki, Azerbaijan, using finite element analysis (FEA) before and after its restoration. The primary objective is to evaluate the performance of the bridge under self-weight and seismic loads, following the standards of the Turkish Building Earthquake Code. The bridge, constructed primarily with limestone masonry, was analyzed using SAP2000 software. The results indicate that the structural integrity under compressive and shear stresses remained within acceptable limits both before and after restoration. However, post-restoration improvements in stress distribution and deformation were evident. This paper contributes to the preservation of historic structures through modern engineering analysis and provides insights into the appropriate restoration practices for masonry arch bridges.