Nonlinear Numerical Modeling of Complex Masonry Heritage Structures Considering History-Related Phenomena in Staged Construction Analysis and Material Uncertainty in Seismic Assessment

A novel numerical approach reveals how historical masonry structures, such as the Mallorca Cathedral and Poblet Monastery's church, develop deformations and cracks due to long-term strain accumulation, architectural alterations, seismic activity, and material uncertainty. The study combines a constitutive model for time-dependent behavior with crack-tracking techniques, enabling staged construction analysis that explains current structural conditions. Probabilistic analysis further assesses seismic vulnerability by accounting for uncertainties in material properties. This method offers a robust framework for diagnosing and preserving complex heritage structures.

Saloustros, S., Pelà, L., & Roca, P. (2020). Nonlinear Numerical Modeling of Complex Masonry Heritage Structures Considering History-Related Phenomena in Staged Construction Analysis and Material Uncertainty in Seismic Assessment. Journal of Performance of Constructed Facilities, 34(5). https://doi.org/10.1061/(asce)cf.1943-5509.0001494