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A finite element analysis was carried out to assess the seismic behavior of Mustafa Pasha mosque in Skopje and the efficiency of a CFRP-based strengthening technique. The numerical models of the as-built and retrofitted mosque were calibrated and validated against the results of an extensive experimental investigation based on shaking table tests on a large-scale physical model. Linear dynamic and nonlinear static analyses were performed to design the retrofitting intervention and to analyze the seismic behavior of the large-scale model before and after strengthening. Experimental and numerical results were compared to assess the accuracy of the models. The formation of crack patterns observed on the large-scale model in the different phases of the testing program was analysed and the responses to lateral load were compared. Finally, the numerical models were used to predict the seismic behavior and the effectiveness of the retrofitting system on the full-scale prototype.

A wide experimental investigation on laser welded connections based on both lap-shear and tension tests was performed at the University of Naples. The aim of the study was to assess the possibility of using laser welding in innovative built-up cold-formed steel beams. The experimental programme was designed in order to evaluate the effects of different parameters on the strength and ultimate displacement of the selected connections. In particular, the influence of sheet thickness, gap, loading direction, weld shapes and zinc coating were analyzed. The results of the experimental tests were compared with the predicted resistance values according to Eurocode 3, with the aim of validating for laser welding the mechanical models provided for spot welds.

The results of a research project aimed at designing and development a built-up cold-formed steel beam assembled by laser welding are described in this paper. The research activity was concerned with the evaluation of the applicability of laser welded connections to cold-formed members and with the assessment of the load bearing capacity of the assembled beams. With this aim, both lap-shear and U-tension tests were carried out on laser welds in order to assess the influence on connection strength of different parameters such as the gap between the steel sheets and the zinc coating. Finally, the load bearing capacity of laser welded built-up cold-formed members was investigated by four-point bending tests. Four full-scale prototypes were manufactured with different spacings of connections along the flanges in order to evaluate the effects of weld configuration on the load bearing capacity.