Mechanical characterization of rubble stone masonry walls using non and minor destructive tests

As is well known, the diagnostic analysis of ancient buildings supposes important challenges from the point of view of its evaluation under field conditions. In this context, Non and Minor Destructive Techniques (N&MDTs) can be used for the mechanical characterization of ancient buildings. However, there are not many examples of application of the techniques in rubble stone masonry. Therefore, this paper presents a preliminary experimental study by using N&MDTs applied in a particular construction: the Riva–Herrera palace located in Santander, Northern Spain. In this way, different non and minor destructive techniques as flat jack, hole-drilling and sonic tests have been used in order to evaluate the mechanical and morphological characteristics of different rubble stone masonry walls, under field conditions. The results of this study show that the N&MDTs used in this study can be potentially used for providing valuable information about the mechanical and morphological characteristics of rubble stone masonry walls. In addition, this knowledge of great important in the intervention process has been obtained with a minimal effect on the structural component analyzed.

► The paper presents an experimental study by using N&MDT applied in a rubble stone masonry construction of the 16th century.
► The stress levels obtained by using simple flat-jack and hole-drilling tests were equivalent.
► The estimation of compressive strength using double flat-jack test has led to a reasonable value for the case analyzed.
► The composition of the transverse section of the load-bearing walls has been identified through impact-echo methodology.
► The N&MDT used in this study can be used for providing valuable information of rubble stone masonry walls.