Author

G. BOSCATO, S. RUSSO and F. SCIARRETTA
IUAV University of Venice

Abstract

The paper describes the scope and preliminary results of static and dynamic monitoring on the external medieval façades of Palazzo Ducale in Venice. Initial experimental deductions on structural behaviour are presented, and future developments, anticipated results and data utilization strategies are discussed. The monitoring activity was carried out as an integrated multi-disciplinary procedure, by the Research Unit ‘Assessment of Monumental Buildings’ (CdSM) at the IUAV University of Venice. The programme was set up in order to control the zones of possible concern with regards to visible cracks and arch voussoirs’ interfaces using extensometers, and to detect the dynamic response to ambient-induced excitations along a vertical section, by means of accelerometers. Finally, the empirical calculation of the damping coefficient of the South façade is shown, and a judgement on its reliability is given.

Key words
Palazzo Ducale Venice, masonry buildings monitoring, historic masonry, damping coefficient, ambient vibrations