Numerical assessment of the static and seismic behaviour of the basilica of Santa Maria all’Impruneta (Italy)

The paper analyses the static behaviour and the seismic vulnerability of the Basilica of Santa Maria all’Impruneta near Florence (Italy). The static structural behaviour and the dynamic properties of the church have been evaluated using the finite element modelling technique, where the nonlinear behaviour of masonry has been taken into account by proper constitutive assumptions. A macro-modelling approach has been used based on the concepts of homogenisated material and smeared cracking and crushing constitutive law. Seismic vulnerability has been evaluated using a pushover method, and the results obtained with the nonlinear numerical model have been compared with the simplified schemes of limit analysis. The capacity of the church to withstand lateral loads is evaluated together with the expected demands resulting from seismic actions. The comparison of seismic demand vs. capacity confirms the susceptibility of this type of buildings to extensive damage and collapse, as frequently observed in similar buildings. The paper’s aim was to point out that advanced numerical analyses can offer significant information on the understanding of the actual structural behaviour of historic buildings. The methodology and the conclusions of this case study it is believed that are applicable to a wide variety of historic Basilica churches.

Graphical abstractFig. 1 Vertical stresses σz [N/mm2]: facade wall detail. Fig. 2 Pushover: uniform load, x-direction. Cracking pattern.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideResearch highlights► Vulnerability of masonry buildings is enhanced by the absence of adequate connections. ► Sophisticated models could offer effective information in reproducing pathologies. ► Nonlinear behaviour of masonry can be accounted for by a Mohr–Coulomb type criterion.