Numerical modelling of the dynamic behaviour of ancient masonry constructions

This paper deals with the results of some nonlinear dynamic analyses conducted via the finite element code NOSA on the "Rognosa" tower in San Gimignano. The NOSA code has been developed by the Mechanics of Materials and Structures Laboratory of ISTI-CNR and applied since the nineties to the study of many masonry buildings and monuments. The code models masonry as an isotropic, nonlinear elastic material with zero tensile strength and bounded compressive strength; thermal dilatations due to daily or seasonal thermal variations can be taken into account as well. The NOSA-ITACA project, funded by the Region of Tuscany for the years 2011-2013, is aimed at upgrading the NOSA code via the open source GUI platform SALOME and developing a technical support service to provide consultancy, assistance and training in the field of maintenance and restoration of the architectural heritage.