Testing and numerical modeling of semi prefabricated reinforced brick masonry vaults

In the framework of a European Research Project, semi-prefabricated solutions for short and medium span shell roofs were developed by several European institutions and private companies. The main aim of the research was finding an industrialized solution for the construction of curved masonry shells, inspired by those designed by the well-known Uruguayan architect and engineer Eladio Dieste, and to prove their structural reliability. As part of the research, several tests on basic materials and small assemblages were carried out at the University of Padova to obtain specific material properties and to reduce uncertainties in resistance models. A full size model of a thin curved shell, with eight metres span, was built and tested in order to evaluate the ultimate resistance. The experimental results allowed calibrating non linear finite element models, in order to reproduce the structural behaviour of the developed construction system. A macro modelling strategy, implementing inelastic isotropic material laws and resorting on layered curved shell finite elements, was adopted. Parametric analyses on small assemblages and on curved shells were performed. The effects of variation of strength of materials, size and location of reinforcements and boundary conditions within plausible discrete ranges were investigated. Results allow some conclusions to be drawn about the influence of these parameters on the ultimate resistance of small assemblages and curved shells. In the present contribution, the results of the finite element analyses carried out are discussed.