Interpretation of URM in-situ tests

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  Double flat-jack test, Elastic Modulus

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  Shove test, Shear Stregth

In the framework of a large project aimed at defining the seismic vulnerability of existing masonry structures subjected to induced seismicity in the Groningen region (The Netherlands), we were mandated the task of the interpretation of the results of an in-situ testing campaign. The testing campaign, aimed at the definition of the mechanical properties of the masonry material typically found in the region, was composed by non-destructive tests (penetrometric tests, rebound hammer tests and ultrasonic tests) and slightly destructive tests (single flatjack tests, double flatjack tests and shove tests).

The working methodology can be resumed in the following steps:

• Gathering of the test results and assessment of their reliability;
• Determination for each test of the related mechanical parameters;
• Investigation of possible correlations existing amongst the mechanical parameters derived from the various tests;
• Comparison of the mechanical parameters with values available in literature and obtained from previous in-situ and laboratory testing campaigns;
• Definition of a set of mechanical parameters to be used in the seismic assessment of the structures under investigation.