Seismic Analysis of Vaulted Masonry Structures Through the Finite Element Model "Block-Joint"

Abstract eng:
In monumental buildings vaulted structures and arches are structures of great importance. The traditional approach with the analysis of a rigid-brittle model constitutes a reference method but it is affected by some operational limits, such as, the use of a planar model which cannot represent effectively spatial systems which include adjacent structures (walls, pillars). Moreover, disregarding elasticity, modal analysis cannot be performed. An alternative methodology is proposed. Using simple one-dimensional finite element (blocks joints) the collapse mechanism is obtained through an incremental elastic-brittle analysis. The method easily finds a balanced solution compatible with the mechanical characteristics of the material. Also, considering the tensile stress of the mortar joints, it is possible to evaluate more accurately the effective seismic resistance of the structure. The proposed method is applied to study an important religious monument.

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