Structural evaluation of the Palazzo della Civilta Italiana in Rome

The Palazzo della Civilta Italiana is a monumental building characterised by a reinforced concrete structure composed of parallel (cast in situ) portal frames and composite (reinforced concrete + hollow bricks) floors which spans between adjacent portals: a common construction technique in Italy. The floors are characterised by having a large span of about 10.0 metres. The construction took place between 1939 and 1943, most likely according to the Italian building code published in 1939. The authors have co-ordinated a comprehensive experimental campaign aimed at (a) the identification of the characteristics of the structural materials and members, and (b) the identification of eventual damages. Based upon the experimental results a number of analytical and numerical investigations have been developed in order to assess the structural reliability of the Palazzo which still remains in its 'original' configuration, as no substantial intervention of structural retrofit or rehabilitation have been implemented so far. This analysis allowed the identification of two major reliability issues: (i) the load bearing capacities of the floors do not allow the intended use, and (ii) the seismic vulnerability of the building does not satisfy the reliability standards required by current codes. On the basis of all data acquired and investigations performed, a simple (non invasive) structural retrofit solution capable of bringing the Palazzo to the level of structural safety required by current codes is identified.