PSI - Issue 78

Marina Serpe et al. / Procedia Structural Integrity 78 (2026) 1000–1007

1007

7. Conclusion This work investigates the effect of foundation settlements on the seismic performance of unreinforced masonry façades. The numerical analyses carried out demonstrate that: • All considered settlement profiles lead to a reduction in lateral capacity and stiffness, alongside an increase in ultimate displacement. • Fragility curves show a consistent increase in vulnerability across settlement scenarios compared to the case with seismic action only. • Central settlements, due to their symmetry, result in limited damage and less severe degradation of the structural response. • In contrast, lateral settlements involving two piers are the most damaging, activating tilting mechanisms that compromise global stability and significantly increase seismic vulnerability. 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