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Base isolation of heavy non-structural monolithic objects at the top of a masonry monumental construction

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Abstract

The present paper deals with the relevant topic of seismic protection of heavy non-structural monolithic objects, which are usually placed at the top of masonry monumental constructions for mainly decorative purposes, like pinnacles and heavy artwork. Even if, after seismic events, most of the losses are due to structural collapse of buildings and other structural systems, heavy non-structural objects of the kind considered in the present work represent a serious potential hazard for both human lives and cultural heritage. During earthquakes, such objects undergo large base accelerations, which may eventually cause their collapse by rocking and overturning. In the present contribution, the seismic protection of eleven ancient marble decorative pinnacles placed at the top of the three-arched masonry city gate in Ferrara (Italy) is illustrated as a case study. In particular, a method for assessing the safety level of these systems under the action of seismic excitations is outlined and base isolation is proposed as a very promising technique for the seismic retrofit of heavy non-structural monolithic objects. The dynamical response to seismic actions of the underlying masonry construction is assessed through time-history dynamic analyses and the amplification of the ground accelerations at the base of the pinnacles is evaluated. Furthermore, the pinnacles are modeled as rigid bodies and their rocking behavior under base excitations is discussed. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed base isolation system is assessed through non-linear dynamic numerical simulations.

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Acknowledgments

The Authors are grateful to the Municipality of Ferrara and Archt. N. Frasson for raising the interest and supporting the project. Authors are also grateful to Ing. M. G. Castellano, PhD, of FIP Industriale Group for her kind support. Finally, the researchers of the University of Ferrara gratefully acknowledge the financial support of ReLUIS3 programs WP2 (analysis of the seismic response of masonry structures) and Task 2.2 (horizontal structures, vaults, floors, roofs and their interaction with masonry structures).

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Engineering Department, University of Ferrara, Via Saragat 1, 44122, Ferrara, Italy

    Andrea Chiozzi, Michele Simoni & Antonio Tralli

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  1. Andrea Chiozzi
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  2. Michele Simoni
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  3. Antonio Tralli
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Correspondence to Andrea Chiozzi.

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Chiozzi, A., Simoni, M. & Tralli, A. Base isolation of heavy non-structural monolithic objects at the top of a masonry monumental construction. Mater Struct 49, 2113–2130 (2016). https://doi.org/10.1617/s11527-015-0637-z

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1617/s11527-015-0637-z

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