Elastic Properties Estimation of Masonry Walls through the Propagation of Elastic Waves: An Experimental Investigation

Abstract

Structural identification is one of the most important steps when dealing with historic buildings. Knowledge of the parameters, which define the mechanical properties of these kinds of structures, is fundamental in preparing interventions aimed at their restoration and strengthening, especially if they have suffered damage due to strong events. In particular, by using non-destructive techniques it is possible to estimate the mechanical characteristics of load-bearing structures without compromising the artistic value of the monumental buildings. In this paper, after recalling the main theoretical aspects, the use of elastic waves propagation through impact tests for the characterization of the masonry walls of a monumental building is described. The impact test allowed us to estimate the elastic characteristics of the homogeneous solid equivalent to masonry material. This confirms the great potential of the non-destructive diagnostics suitable for analyzing important structural parameters without affecting the preservation of historical masonry structures.

Seismic Assessment of Roman Concrete Groin Vaults through UAV, NDT and 3D Analyses

“…By approximating the material as linear elastic, homogeneous, and isotropic, the wellknown Equation (1) relates the velocity of the sonic p-wave (V) to the dynamic modulus of elasticity (E d ) [19].…”

“…Being the majority of the material in a range of velocity between 800 and 1200 m/s, it was considered an average value of 1000 m/s; therefore, Equation (1) returns an estimated modulus of elasticity of 1600 MPa. By approximating the material as linear elastic, homogeneous, and isotropic, the well-known Equation (1) relates the velocity of the sonic p-wave (V) to the dynamic modulus of elasticity (Ed) [19].…”

Analytical and Numerical Solution for Inverse Coefficient Non-Linear Hyperbolic Equation with Periodic Boundary Condition

“…In the eld of engineering, the wave equation plays a pivotal role in understanding and addressing various physical problems and aspects across diverse disciplines. In vibration analysis, the wave equation is employed to characterize the propagation of mechanical waves through structures and systems, aiding in the prediction and mitigation of undesirable oscillations (Marazzani et al 2021). Heat transfer phenomena, a critical consideration in thermal engineering, are governed by the heat conduction equation, a form of the wave equation, which describes the propagation of thermal waves within materials and systems (Tzou 1991).…”

Ground Wave Propagation Measurement using DAQ Module and LabVIEW

“…An accelerometer is a typical sensor that can be applied as a vibration/ seismic sensor; it can sense ground vibration [15]. Some researchers utilized it for various aims, such as a laboratory scale measurement to calculate the physical property of the materials [16], sedimentary rocks [17], or igneous/ metamorphic rocks [18], and in situ elastic properties investigation through the wave propagation in the geotechnical field [19,20]. A geophone can also be occupied as a vibration sensor, yet, the frequency response is less than in an accelerometer [21].…”

“…Therefore, the system requires sensors, a DAQ module, and LabVIEW as a graphical interface to achieve this objective. Then, the measurement method is adopted from [15,19]. This system can assist the researchers or students in the activity in earth science, geotechnical, and engineering education fields.…”