Author(s)

D. Galeota, G. Sforza, L. Sbaraglia

Abstract

The aim of this work was to verify the dynamic behavior of the masonry shell forming the backbone of the Basilica of S. Maria di Collemaggio, in L’Aquila (Italy), and then to compare it with the experimental results related to previous investigations of the ruinous earthquake of April 6th, 2009. This is with the intention of having an objective indication, in quantitative terms, with respect to the actual damage suffered by the construction and effectiveness of the provisional measures put in place immediately after the earthquake. Another aspect, not to be underestimated, was to envisage a method of investigation based solely on environmental noise as a source of excitation, and to highlight the advantages and potentiality for the experimental study of dynamic artifacts typologically similar to the one in question. In this case, the operational modal analysis can reasonably be defined as the investigation technique for excellence as the most immediate, expeditious and reliable. Future developments and implementations, based on the concept of configurations with transducers at a fixed location, will provide the highest and most effective contribution to the branch of health engineering.

Keywords

earthquake, modal testing, operational modal analysis, impact hammer, seismic accelerometer, piezoelectric, health engineering, frequency, modal shape, damping