The course aims to address one of the most important issues in structural engineering field, namely the use of experimental tests as a tool for the characterization of materials, existing structures and structural elements. The main experimental techniques used in the characterization and evaluation of buildings and bridges will be presented and the application areas will be analyzed with particular reference to diagnostics and testing.
Course Prerequisites
Knowledge of the basic elements of theory and design of the courses and Structural Dynamics courses is required with special reference to the behavior of systems with multiple degrees of freedom.
Teaching Methods
Lectures focused on the theory of experimental techniques, transducers and data reprocessing. Lectures focused on the inverse analysis of structures and diagnosis. Laboratory lessons aimed at the application of experimental techniques on some case studies (non-destructive testing, monitoring, use of software for data reprocessing);
Assessment Methods
Written / practical test focused on verifying the learning of theoretical and applicative aspects
Texts
• Dynamics of Structures, R.W. Clough, J. Penzien • Norme Tecniche per le costruzioni D.M. 17 Gennaio 2018
Contents
• Classification of experimental techniques • Transducers: physical quantity-electrical quantity conversion • Sensors and instruments for measuring physical quantities (deformometers, velocimeters, accelerometers, potentiometers, LVDT, load cells, etc.) • Acquisition of data produced by sensors (analog-to-digital conversion, quantization) • Non-destructive testing for reinforced concrete and masonry structures (sclerometer, pacometer, ultrasonic, goeradar, x-rays, flat jacks, MASW, SONREB, etc.) • Destructive testing on structural elements and structures (outline) • Static and dynamic health monitoring of buildings, bridges, dams, tanks, etc. • Postprocessesing of the acquired experimental data and extraction of response parameters of the structures subjected to predefined and random loads • Introduction to back analysis and structural identification • Multi-level structural diagnostics • Use of experimental technique in the testing and validation of structures • Application to case studies
Course Language
Italian
More information
Laboratory visits are planned to attend tests on structural elements and full-scale structures
