Author

S. RUSSO, G. BOSCATO and F. SCIARRETTA

IUAV University of Venice

Abstract

The overall mechanical behaviour of a historic brick masonry structure in Venice – belonging to the building known as “Molino Stucky”, partially destroyed by a fire in 2003 – is investigated from both experimental and theoretical points of view.

This paper presents the results from destructive tests performed on specimens in laboratory and from non?destructive and micro-destructive tests performed in situ. The overall reliability of the data is assessed by comparison. A finite element analysis was also carried out to identify the collapse mechanism of the fallen structure as well as the local structural response.

A further aim of the programme was to compare the actual behaviour of the walls that collapsed under the fire to results given by some of the currently available analytical methods for assessing the mechanical performance of masonry walls under elevated temperatures and fire.