Understanding the structures of Pier Luigi Nervi: a multidisciplinary approach

Abstract

The paper describes the strategies adopted to carry out the knowledge campaign on Hall C built by Pier Luigi Nervi at Torino Esposizioni, between 1949 and 1950, and belonging to the architectural heritage of the 20th century. The structure was built by combining reinforced concrete and ferrocement elements, thus implementing what for Nervi would later become the distinctive construction system of his artwork, which combined the use of precast in situ and cast-in-place elements.  The extensive review of the historical documentation allowed the identification of the distinctive features and material differences of all structural elements in order to formulate the least invasive testing campaign possible, combining sample extraction with non-destructive testing. The paper aims to illustrate the problems and challenges associated with the creation of interpretive models of the built heritage through the relationship between historical critical investigations and structural diagnosis and is intended to serve as an example for an appropriate phase of investigation aimed at developing guidelines for the conservation of a complex and iconic work.