Seismic behaviour of barrel vault systems

In this paper, the experimental study on the rocking behaviour of a full scale barrel vaulted structure undergo cyclic horizontal loading is discussed. The study is the first part of an ongoing experimental and theoretical research program, developed by the University of Brescia, concerning the seismic behaviour of masonry buildings. The scope of the paper is to provide some evidence of the rocking mechanism experienced by barrel vaulted structures undergo horizontal loading. Understanding of the behaviour of such structural systems is fundamental for their seismic vulnerability assessment, as well as for the correct design of possible strengthening techniques. The structural behaviour is also investigated by means of non linear finite element analyses. Numerical results are validated through comparison with experimental results. After validation, the FE model can be applied to different case studies.