In-situ tests, analytical and numerical studies for the assessment capacity of a historic building in l’Aquila

The paper summarizes some of the studies carried out on the stone masonry structures of the building "palazzo Paone" to assess the damages caused by the earthquake of April 6th 2009, in the historical center of L'Aquila and to suggest rehabilitation materials and techniques. The extended report about the work done is available on [1]. After a brief description of the building, the in situ diagonal compression test on the building masonry wall is described, in order to quantify the enhancement of masonry wall mechanical properties by injection. Subsequently, a modified Coulomb failure criterion, fitted for that specific masonry, is referred to and the suitable mechanical parameters have been adopted for the numerical seismic analyses of a finite element model of the building. The input numerical values have been deduced by comparing the results of the performed flat jack in situ tests. The performed analyses have shown a comparable picture of seismic damage on the structure, as those observed on site. From the analyses results, useful suggestions are proposed in order to evaluate the techniques to be adopted to improve the seismic capacity of the building. The analysis results, in term of stress field, are evaluated following the mandatory Italian design code and even proposing an appropriate comparison with the Coulomb failure criterion, in the case of masonry.