Research activity regards the assessment of masonry both at material level, considering its components, both at structural level. Research activities are performed from theoretical, numerical and experimental, in laboratory and in situ, point of views.
In particular, the following research themes are taken into account:
- multiscale analysis of masonry structures in-plane and out-of-plane loaded, in linear and nonlinear fields, in static and dynamic field of analysis;
- analysis of masonry structures by means of homogenization techniques;
- discrete element models for the assessment of masonry structures;
- combined finite-discrete element models for the assessment of masonry structures;
- interface constitutive laws for modeling masonry behavior locally;
- identification procedures between discrete/heterogeneous models and standard (Cauchy) and micropolar continuum models;
- validation and calibration of the proposed numerical models for masonry by means of laboratory tests on masonry specimens and masonry panels;
- assessment of three-leaf/rubble masonry wall behaivour by means of laboratory tests;
- assessment of consolidation effect on three-leaf masonry walls subject to grout injections;
- static, dynamic analysis in linear and non-linear fields and limit analysis of masonry arch bridges;
- static, dynamic analysis in linear and non-linear fields and limit analysis of masonry domes;
- modeling and assessment of slender masonry buildings (towers, belfries);
- structural identification of slender masonry buildings;
- mechanical characterization of masonry by means of non-destructive or micro-destructive in situ tests;
- reinforcing techniques for masonry structures by means of composite materials with natural fibers;
- mechanical characterization of self-healing materials for the consolidation of masonry plasters;