Four massive wooden shear walls were analysed via experimental tests and numerical simulations. The specimens differ mainly in the method used to assemble the layers of timber boards: two of them are the well-known Cross-Laminated-Timber panels with glued interfaces, the other two are innovative massive timber panels adopting steel staples or wooden dovetail inserts to connect the layers. Quasi-static cyclic-loading tests were performed for each wall and main results are presented and analysed. A non-linear numerical model was calibrated on experimental results and used to perform non-linear dynamic analyses on specifically designed three-storey shear wall. The methods ensuring a reliable estimation of the intrinsic behaviour factor are presented and the definition of yielding and failure condition is discussed. The intrinsic behaviour factor values were calculated using results from non-linear dynamic analyses. Three limits of failure condition were analysed to estimate the correlated Peak Ground Acceleration and therefore the behaviour factor. A final interpretation of the obtained results is presented and some instructions about the choice of the suitable behaviour factor are given

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The in-plane strengthening of masonry walls plays a key role in the improvement of the global seismic behaviour of masonry buildings. Various strengthening techniques are currently available, such as coatings, confinement or injection and the use of cement-based materials or steel- or fibre-reinforced polymers or mortars. In this work, two innovative strengthening techniques for existing masonry buildings were investigated: the use of glued or nailed timber wall panels connected to the outer and/or inner face of the masonry wall. Their effectiveness in reducing the seismic vulnerability of existing masonry walls was assessed in tests and numerical simulations. The test results demonstrated improvements in strength, rocking displacement capacity and energy dissipation capacity. The numerical analyses, conducted with non-linear models calibrated on experimental results available in the literature, confirmed the advantages of these interventions, comparing the effects of using monolithic or coupled glued or nailed wall panels, provided that particular attention is given to their connection to the existing structure.

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