Structural performance study and improvement of Artemio Franchi Stadium in Florence

A structural performance study of the Artemio Franchi Stadium, Florence—an iconic work by Pier Luigi Nervi and a UNESCO-listed site—reveals that while static conditions are generally stable, seismic risks pose significant threats. The research, conducted via field surveys, testing, and finite element modeling, identified unsafe conditions in nearly 10% of beams and columns under static loads and widespread vulnerabilities at the Basic Design Earthquake level. A proposed retrofit solution, incorporating fluid viscous dampers to dissipate seismic energy while preserving the stadium's architectural integrity, demonstrates substantial improvements. Over half of the previously unsafe structural members transitioned to safe conditions post-retrofit, with additional local strengthening addressing residual risks. This approach achieves seismic resilience with minimal visual or functional impact, adhering to strict preservation constraints.

Terenzi, G., Fuso, E., & Sorace, S. (2024). Structural performance study and improvement of Artemio Franchi Stadium in Florence. Engineering Structures, 298, 117068. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.engstruct.2023.117068