Advanced numerical insight into the structural damage of masonry vaults under seismic excitation: two valuable case studies

Recent earthquakes have highlighted the significant seismic vulnerability of monumental masonry structures, particularly concerning complex elements such as quadripartite vaults. This study provides advanced numerical insights into how these vaults behave under horizontal loads and their role in the global seismic behavior of historical constructions, focusing on two case studies: the Narthex of the Nativity Church in Bethlehem and the Fornasini tower in Northeast Italy. Using ABAQUS finite element modeling, researchers conducted non-linear dynamic analyses to assess structural behavior and crack patterns, employing a Concrete Damage Plasticity (CDP) model to account for damage phenomena and softening in masonry during seismic events. The findings contribute crucial data on the resilience and failure mechanisms of these critical architectural elements under seismic excitation.

Milani, G., Valente, M., & Alessandri, C. (2017). Advanced numerical insight into the structural damage of masonry vaults under seismic excitation: two valuable case studies. International Journal of Masonry Research and Innovation, 2(2/3), 169. https://doi.org/10.1504/ijmri.2017.085953