Abstract
Block-based constructions, such as masonry and similar assemblages, remain central to both the conservation of historic architectural heritage and the development of innovative sustainable structures. In recent years, a renewed interdisciplinary interest has emerged at the intersection of computational mechanics, applied mathematics and experimental monitoring, aimed at understanding and enhancing the performance of these structures. This Special Issue was conceived to gather and showcase some of the most recent advancements in this dynamic and multidisciplinary field.
The call for contributions welcomed works spanning from analytical and numerical modelling to monitoring and experimental diagnostics of masonry and block-based structures. As guest editors, we are pleased to present a selection of high-quality articles reflecting the diversity of research directions and the scientific rigour emerging from this intersection.
The contributions collected in this volume include studies on advanced numerical modelling of masonry systems, such as the work by Gesualdo et al., 1 which investigates the role of elasticity in the free oscillations of masonry panels using nonlinear dynamic analyses. Two contributions specifically address the complex issue of seismic performance in aggregate masonry systems. The paper by Generoso Vaiano 2 evaluates the effectiveness of localised retrofitting strategies on irregular structural units within masonry aggregates, offering insight into the balance between local intervention and global structural response. Complementing this, the study by Guadagnuolo et al. 3 focusses on the influence of structural interactions within monumental building aggregates, highlighting the need for modelling entire complexes to capture their collective seismic behaviour accurately.
Several papers explore the integration of experimental and numerical approaches to better assess the structural behaviour and safety of existing buildings. Mojmir Uranjek’s 4 contribution provides practical insights into the structural monitoring of masonry buildings in Slovenia, focussing on seismic integrity and the role of non-invasive technologies. Similarly, Monaco presents a comprehensive experimental assessment of mechanical properties of tuff masonry in Southern Italy, highlighting the challenges and opportunities of non-destructive testing techniques.
A particularly notable contribution is the work by Ramaglia et al., 5 which proposes an optimisation-based framework for the structural strengthening of masonry buildings. Through a detailed numerical investigation, the authors demonstrate how accounting for the compressive contribution of the mortar matrix in FRCM systems can lead to more efficient and less invasive retrofitting strategies, especially for heritage structures.
Contributions to the understanding of historical structures through multidisciplinary and modelling-based reconstructions are also included. Averna et al. 6 offer a reconstruction of a medieval church in Cumae, Italy, through the integration of architectural, archaeological and structural data. Another remarkable case study is presented by Cennamo et al., who analyse the San Gennaro Chapel in Naples, modelling the interaction between a double-shell masonry dome and a timber structural system.
The Special Issue also features works that explore damage assessment and structural vulnerability. Luciana Di Gennaro’s 7 study investigates the influence of localised damage on the stability of masonry arches, proposing a parametric approach to support intervention strategies.
The volume also includes a highly innovative contribution by Paris et al., 8 who explore the intersection of structural design and construction constraints in the realisation of a masonry shell built for the 2024 Shenzhen Flower Show. Their study, centred on digital construction methods, augmented reality and layer-by-layer design, offers a novel perspective on the integration of structural and technological considerations in the development of complex block-based geometries.
This collection reflects a growing scientific community dedicated to advancing the understanding of block-based structures through mathematical modelling, monitoring and experimentation. The articles not only demonstrate the richness of the approaches being developed but also open avenues for further collaboration across disciplines. We are confident that this Special Issue will contribute meaningfully to the research and practical knowledge base in the field, inspiring future developments in both the preservation and design of masonry and blockwork constructions.