Experimental Investigation on the Behavior of Spandrels in Ancient Masonry Buildings

Abstract eng:
The paper presents the main outcomes of experimental tests carried out to analyze the structural behaviour of masonry spandrels. They play a significant role in masonry walls of ancient buildings, as they guarantee an effective coupling between adjacent masonry piers so as to assure high in-plane strength and stiffness for the walls. The main aim of the research is to point out the actual response of such structural components under seismic loads. Two spandrels with different lintels are considered in the study, they have been subjected to a controlled vertical displacement history so as to simulate their response under seismic actions. Moreover the effect of a strengthening intervention for spandrels that consider the coupling between the masonry beams and steel ties has been pointed out. The results achieved make up for the lack of experimental data on the behaviour of these structural elements and constitute a valid reference to calibrate nonlinear numerical models for the assessment of the ancient masonry buildings seismic performance.

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