Advanced methods for masonry structural analysis and metamaterial design

About this position

The project is structured into two research lines. The first concerns the

analysis of masonry structures and aims to develop models and algorithms for safety assessment, with particular

attention to thrusting systems such as arches, vaults and arch bridges, using methods based on limit analysis. The

load-bearing capacity of the structures, the effects of support settlements and collapse mechanisms will be

examined. The second line focuses on the study of metamaterials through the design of units and lattices with

programmable nonlinear responses, aimed at developing bistable, multistable or high-performance structures. In

particular, metamaterials inspired by tensegrity and origami structures will be investigated using analytical and

numerical models. The modelling activities will be complemented by additive manufacturing and experimental

testing to validate the developed models