Italian Perspectives on Seismic Retrofitting: Unraveling the State of the Art in Building Isolation Techniques

The seismic retrofit of existing buildings stands as a proven and vital strategy in mitigating earthquake-induced damage. This method centers around the strategic integration of anti-seismic devices at the building's base to effectively decouple ground motion from the structure. Particularly crucial for existing structures, this retrofit strategy addresses the unique challenges posed by older buildings and ensures enhanced resilience against seismic events. These anti-seismic devices are characterized by their high vertical stiffness, substantial horizontal flexibility, and medium to high dissipative capacity. Italy is among the world's most advanced countries in the widespread implementation of seismic isolation in existing buildings. This article indeed describes recent applications of this technology in buildings with completely different purposes: from private condominiums to school buildings, from healthcare facilities to agricultural structures. Various types of anti-seismic devices (rubber and friction isolators) are presented with a particular focus on experimental response. Finally, the article offers detailed insights into the various construction activities necessary for installing these devices, particularly in the context of reinforced concrete and masonry structures.