(EPSRC-IAA) New Sustainable Techniques for Optimised Masonry Structures

Contact: Dr Bartolomeo Panto

Publications: 

• Numerical simulation of the in-plane response of masonry walls retrofitted with “splints and bandages” systems - ScienceDirect
• SUSTAINABLE RETROFITTING TECHNIQUES FOR SEISMIC PROTECTION OF MASONRY STRUCTURES - COMPDYN 2025 - EASD Procedia

The project aims to accelerate the industrial application of an innovative low-cost construction technique for the sustainable design and retrofit of masonry structures in both developed (UK) and developing countries. Unreinforced masonry constructions represent a significant percentage of existing and newly designed residential buildings worldwide. These structures generally exhibit a low capability to withstand lateral loading generated by natural events, which may lead to catastrophic failures, causing enormous life and economic losses. Retrofitting methodologies based on the application of external layers like the “Splint-and-Bandage” method used seismic retrofitting masonry buildings in Nepal can represent effective solutions. This project aims to implement this research towards an optimised structural system focusing on reducing carbon emissions and minimising material usage. This will be achieved through small-scale experiments, the development of design procedures, and the implementation of optimised building prototypes to be presented to UK industrial partners and internationally.