Structural analysis on heritage buildings in the centre of L'Aquila damaged by earthquake

FOPPOLI MORETTA e ASSOCIATI carried out analysis for the characterization of many heritage buildings and other structures damaged by the earthquake of 6th April 2009. Most of them were located in the city centre: palazzo Chiarino, Palazzo Antinori, S. Giuseppe and Giuliani neighbourhoods and the S. Maria Picenze cloister.

Most of the building masonry examined was substantially similar being constructed in irregular medium sized blocks of limestone with mainly horizontal grain.

Sub-vertical samples were taken in foundation masonry though the coring; then they were analyzed through video probe inspection to determine geometry, stratigraphy and the composition and consistence of the masonry itself. Single and double flat jacks were used to test masonry stress levels and deformation and to determine the compression strength and FJ-SCT tests were performed to determine the shear strength of the masonry.

Analysis was the support for the project lay out for restoration and seismic assessment of damaged buildings.