Assessment of seismic resistance of a Basilica Church: modelling, analysis and strengthening proposal

In this paper main results on the study of the seismic vulnerability of a basilica-type church are presented. Static behavior and dynamic properties are evaluated using the finite element method. To this end a 3D non-linear analysis is done that takes into account the non-linear behavior of masonry: constitutive assumptions, characterized by elasticity, damage and friction, are made. The standard FEM modeling strategy, based on the concepts of homogenizated material and smeared cracking constitutive law, is used. Seismic vulnerability is evaluated using a pushover approach. Results obtained with the FEM technique are then compared with the simplified schemes of limit analysis, and the capacity of the church to withstand lateral loads is evaluated together with the expected demands from seismic actions. The comparison demand vs. capacity confirms the susceptibility of this type of buildings to extensive damage and to collapse, as frequently observed. Starting from a single case study, a contribution to the issue of modeling and analysis of monumental masonry buildings under seismic action is provided. Eventually a retrofitting proposal is presented.