Assessment of the Effectiveness of Composite Materials in the Strengthening of Historical Churches: Comparative Analysis of Emilian Case Studies Damaged by Seismic Events

The use of composite materials in the strengthening of historical architectural heritage has been widely adopted over the last decades to enhance structural resilience while preserving the aesthetic and cultural integrity of buildings. However, the long-term assessment of such interventions remains a highly relevant topic, particularly in seismic-prone areas. This study examines historical churches in the provinces of Modena and Reggio Emilia, which were reinforced with composite materials following the 1996 earthquake. The 2012 earthquake provided a unique opportunity to evaluate the effectiveness of these interventions: while some structures sustained significant damage, others demonstrated good resistance. Through a comparative analysis of the observed damage and the construction features of each building, this research explores the role of qualitative factors related to the constructive details of reinforcement, compatibility with traditional materials, execution techniques, and the structural specificities of the churches in determining their seismic response. The aim of this study is to contribute to the ongoing discussion on the use of composite materials in heritage conservation, promoting a more informed and data-driven approach to designing durable and effective reinforcement solutions.