Research programme

Six work packages, one integrated path from evidence to practice.

The four-year programme combines in-situ data, experimental campaigns, numerical modelling, vulnerability assessment and retrofit concepts.

Diagram showing the six ZAGGREGATE work packages and links between data acquisition, experiments, numerical modelling and conservation — **One integrated research programme.** Field data, experiments, numerical modelling and conservation expertise feed into one another throughout the project.

WP1 building typologies and in-situ data

WP1

Building typologies & in-situ data

WP1 builds the evidence base for the project. Field surveys and GIS data document geometry, structural systems, construction history, position in the row and interaction with adjacent buildings.

Typology and exposure database
Damage-pattern classification
Ambient-vibration, sonic, flat-jack and gap measurements

Output: calibrated inputs for aggregate-level assessment

WP2 material and component characterisation

WP2

Material & component characterisation

WP2 studies how historic brick, mortar, walls and connections behave under load. Laboratory campaigns are paired with numerical models so measured behaviour can be transferred to complete aggregates.

Mechanical properties and uncertainty
Cyclic in-plane tests on walls and partitions
Calibration of models and strengthening solutions

Output: validated material and component models

WP3

Out-of-plane failures in aggregates

WP3 investigates façade and gable-wall failures, including interaction between in-plane damage and out-of-plane instability. Observed damage identifies and validates likely failure mechanisms.

Database of out-of-plane failures
Discrete-element and kinematic modelling
Comparison with Eurocode 8 provisions

Output: validated mechanisms and modelling recommendations

WP4 shake-table test and blind prediction

WP4

Shake-table test & blind prediction

WP4 provides the large-scale experimental benchmark. A representative Zagreb-type masonry building is tested under bidirectional earthquake excitation after international teams submit blind predictions.

Specimen design and numerical pre-testing
Blind prediction and post-diction competition
Open experimental data and benchmarking

Output: benchmarked models and improved guidance

WP5

Vulnerability of unretrofitted aggregates

WP5 moves from individual analyses to vulnerability and fragility at aggregate and city scale, examining position, neighbouring units and acceleration amplification.

Unit- and aggregate-level fragility curves
Efficient earthquake intensity measures
City-scale risk scenarios for Zagreb

Output: quantified vulnerability of existing aggregates

WP6

Retrofit concepts & guidance

WP6 compares isolated and coordinated interventions to improve safety without transferring risk to neighbouring buildings. Effectiveness, feasibility and compatibility with historic fabric are considered together.

Database of applicable retrofit techniques
Parametric studies of strengthened rows
Assessment and design guidance

Output: practical, risk-informed retrofit guidance

Four-year roadmap

From field evidence to guidance and impact.

The work packages overlap by design: measurements inform models, experiments validate them, and vulnerability studies shape retrofit concepts.

Year 1Year 2Year 3Year 4

WP1Field data & typologies

WP2Laboratory campaigns

WP3Out-of-plane modelling

WP4Shake-table test & prediction

WP5Vulnerability assessment

WP6Retrofit concepts & guidance

Meet the collaborationExplore the team & partners →