Strengthening of Masonry Arches: The “Santa Maria Delle Grazie” Church

A novel approach to reinforcing masonry arches using FRCM (Fiber-Reinforced Cementitious Matrix) composites, specifically with PBO (Polyparafenilenbenzobisoxazole) tapes, demonstrates significant potential for enhancing the seismic response of historical structures. This method compensates for the tensile strength limitations of traditional masonry by applying a grid of PBO tapes on the intrados of arches, effectively counteracting plastic hinge formation and improving structural stability. The study focuses on the Church and Dominican Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie where ongoing restoration efforts include the reinforcement of vulnerable south arcades situated on a slope. By developing a simplified modeling strategy for FRCM-reinforced curved masonry structures, this research provides technicians with a practical tool to accurately describe the mechanical behavior of such systems, offering a promising solution for preserving cultural heritage while ensuring structural integrity.

Massaro, L., Di Gennaro, L., Guadagnuolo, M., & Frunzio, G. (2023). STRENGTHENING OF MASONRY ARCHES: THE “SANTA MARIA DELLE GRAZIE” CHURCH. 9th International Conference on Computational Methods in Structural Dynamics and Earthquake Engineering Methods in Structural Dynamics and Earthquake Engineering, 2380–2393. https://doi.org/10.7712/120123.10567.20441