ABSTRACT
This paper deals with the analysis and stability verification of an old masonry tunnel subjected to new loads from nearby civil engineering works. Only the failure mechanism related to compressive strength is discussed. The objective is to verify the ultimate limit state (ULS). The analysis explores the possibility of applying simultaneously the partial coefficient method with a nonlinear analysis for the masonry tunnel. A nonlinear specific model for masonry is carried out using FEM analysis. Several strategies for verification are proposed and discussed. A comparison with limit analysis is also carried out. Advantages and drawbacks of each strategy are discussed. After analysis of results one strategy is suggested for the stability verification of the masonry vault.
