Multi-setup Ambient Vibration Test and Modal Updating of a Historical Masonry Complex

A complete and suitable instrumentation to perform global experimental dynamic tests is not always available especially in large historical building. In this case performing a multi-setup ambient vibration test could provide an effective dynamic identification. The paper presents the results of an experimental dynamic campaign carried out on a historical masonry building named Sant’Agostino complex located in Benevento, Italy. A multi-setup ambient vibration test was conducted on the building using ten piezoelectric uniaxial accelerometers. Modal parameters were identified through the well-known techniques available in the commercial software Artemis including FDD, EFDD and SSI. At the same time, a finite element model was accurately implemented through the Midas FEA NX software to evaluate the main modal features. A manual model up-date was successively pursued varying the elastic modulus of the masonry to make the identified and numerical modes as close as possible.