Dynamic Identification of Historic Masonry Structures

Abstract

This chapter focuses on the characterization of the dynamic behavior of historic masonry structures. It starts by giving a brief overview and appraisal of the vibration testing procedures that are commonly used for full-scale in-situ dynamic experimentation, including the different types of modal identification techniques exploitable for the extraction of dynamic features from recorded output responses. Afterward, three case study applications are presented and detailed step by step, from the preliminary analyses for the appropriate planning of the dynamic tests to the signal acquisition, data analysis, and results interpretation. The examples provided in the chapter point out the main benefits that in-situ dynamic testing can bring in terms of calibration of behavioral models representative of ancient masonry buildings, improved knowledge about the actual performance of these nonconventional systems, validation of adopted strengthening measures, and better design of future structural interventions.