Papers by Author: Carlo Blasi

Abstract: Diagnostic analysis, required to characterize materials and mechanical parameters of ancient masonry, needs a systematic collection and a careful reading of data results, as well as the cross-check of results of the different samples collected. This work assumes that diagnostic is part of the knowledge phase of existing buildings: knowledge level is fundamental to evaluate the state of conservation, as prescribed also in italian Technical Standards for Construction (2008). This paper describe some characteristics of a database system, M.A.I.D.A - Masonry Analysis Interpretation and Data Archive, performed to contain diagnostic analysis results of traditional materials and constituted by interactive analysis cards. Cards nomenclature and method follow UNI Normal rules for the construction materials: stones, bricks, mortars. Some tests on M.A.I.D.A system were carried out in a cooperation project between University of Parma and University of Rome ‘La Sapienza’. The project comprehends analysis of the Carolingian masonry and mortars from some buildings in Rome: SS. Quattro Coronati ecclesiastic complex, S. Francesca Romana Church and a Carolingian part of the Aurelian Walls in Rome. In order to enforce the data archives and to share the results M.A.I.D.A system will be put in a internet server.

Abstract: The aim of this paper is to show the potentiality of the historical analysis mixed with the experimental data elaboration in identifying the mechanical behavior of an ancient monument. Firstly, an ideal route through the crack pattern of Santa Maria del Fiore dome in Florence is presented herein: the conclusion of the historical debates about the mechanical behavior of the dome are analyzed in light of the statistical interpretation of the last 55years cracks monitoring data. The recall of some historical debates has been fundamental in the comprehension of its mechanical behavior, showing the validity of the empiric-experimental method in ancient master builders solution (the “art of building” rules) to the main problem of the masonry domes: their primeval and ineradicable horizontal thrust on supporting structures. The final aim is to present some results on the beneficent effect of the scaffolding installed on the dome from 1980 to 1996, which seems to confirm the prevision made by Vincenzo Viviani at the end of XVII century on the future consolidation of this dome.