The REVHEAL Project: Preliminary FE Simulations of Full-Scale Tests on Masonry Cross Vaults

The project REVHEAL (Structural Rehabilitation of Vaults in Heritage Asset Learning: collapse identification and design of compatible strengthening systems supported by adaptive 3D models) focuses on the identification of the main collapse mechanisms of masonry cross vaults under differential settlements and the design of sustainable strengthening systems, both items supported by the development of novel 3D adaptive models. These objectives are pursued by means of two experimental campaigns, on small-scale and full-scale specimens, respectively. The experiments on both scale specimens are supported by 3D digital models based on point clouds and multi-scale approximated surface objects, for an accurate detection of the cracks’ pattern. The full-scale tests aim at assessing the response of a 3.5 m span masonry cross-vault under shear sliding of two abutments. The test program includes two reverse cyclic quasi-static tests: the first carried out on a bare vault and the second on the same vault strengthened by a TRM overlay applied at the extrados of the specimen. This paper describes the results of preliminary FE simulations carried out on the bare vault employing a nonlinear continuum approach. In particular, a parametric study was performed to investigate different layouts of interaction between the cross-vault and the perimetral arches, highlighting its importance on the overall seismic response. Indeed, this aspect may affect: (a) both the lateral stiffness and the peak strength; (b) the evolution of the cracking pattern; (c) the slope of the post-peak softening branch.