DOI: 10.17603/ds2-8prg-yh82
title: SERA AIMS - Shake Table Test and Blind Prediction Competition
title: in SERA AIMS - Shake Table Test and Blind Prediction Competition

description: This experiment investigated the seismic behavior of stone masonry building aggregates, focusing on the interaction between adjacent structural units connected by mortar without interlocking stones. Such configurations are common in historical European city centers and present unique challenges in predicting seismic responses.

Testing Methodology:

A half-scale masonry aggregate was constructed, comprising two units:

Unit 1: Single-story, U-shaped layout with plan dimensions of 2.5 × 2.45 meters and a height of 2.2 meters.

Unit 2: Two-story, rectangular layout with plan dimensions of 2.5 × 2.5 meters and a total height of 3.15 meters.

Both units were built using double-leaf irregular stone masonry with hydraulic lime mortar, replicating traditional construction techniques. The units were connected by mortar joints without interlocking stones, simulating weak interfaces typical of historical aggregates.

The specimen was subjected to incremental seismic loading on a shake table, with input motions derived from the 1979 Montenegro earthquake (Ulcinj-Hotel Albatros station). The testing sequence included unidirectional and bidirectional excitations at increasing intensity levels, allowing for the observation of damage progression and interaction effects between the units.

Outcomes:

The experiment provided valuable insights into the seismic performance of masonry aggregates:

Damage Mechanisms: Cracking and separation at the interface between units were observed at lower intensity levels, progressing with increased loading.

Interface Behavior: Bidirectional loading significantly influenced the interaction between units, leading to frictional effects and pounding.

Structural Response: A soft-story mechanism developed in the upper story of Unit 2 during higher intensity runs, highlighting vulnerabilities in multi-story configurations.

Data Reusability:

The collected data, including acceleration records, displacement measurements, and detailed damage observations, are invaluable for researchers and engineers. They can be used to:

Validate Numerical Models: Enhance the accuracy of simulations predicting the seismic behavior of similar structures.

Develop Retrofitting Strategies: Inform interventions aimed at improving the seismic resilience of historical masonry buildings.

Advance Seismic Assessment Methods: Contribute to the refinement of guidelines and standards for evaluating the seismic performance of masonry aggregates.

By providing empirical evidence of the complex interactions within masonry aggregates under seismic loading, this experiment aids in bridging the gap between theoretical models and real-world behavior, ultimately contributing to the preservation and safety of historical structures.
description: This project investigates the seismic behavior of stone masonry building aggregates, which are common in historical European city centers. These aggregates consist of adjacent structural units connected through interlocking stones or mortar, often with weak connections that complicate their seismic response. Using data from a shake-table testing campaign conducted under the SERA AIMS project, the study examines the interaction between two half-scale masonry units subjected to incremental unidirectional and bidirectional seismic excitations. The experimental campaign also explores the impact of retrofitting interventions, such as anchoring timber beams to prevent out-of-plane failures.

The data in this project can be reused by researchers and engineers to validate and calibrate numerical models for predicting the behavior of historical masonry structures during earthquakes. It provides a unique dataset of experimental results, including damage patterns, crack propagation, and interface behavior under dynamic loading conditions. These insights can inform future studies, enhance modeling guidelines, and improve retrofitting strategies.

This project is unique because it addresses a significant gap in experimental data for masonry aggregates, particularly focusing on their interface behavior and response to bidirectional loading. The results contribute to the broader understanding of seismic vulnerabilities in historical structures and help refine analytical and numerical approaches for their assessment.