Building Technologies for the Mitigation of Volcanic Risk: Vesuvius and Campi Flegrei

Abstract

This paper intends to show basic strategies and technical solutions that may reduce volcanic risk on buildings and infrastructures. It points out that reduction—mitigation—of vulnerability and expected damage to existing and new buildings are possible. Eruptive phenomena such as earthquakes, pyroclastic flows, ash fall, and landslides can indeed be considerably reduced by specific intervention on the structure and envelope of buildings. Thus, the study adopts a design-oriented approach in response to volcanic risk with specific reference to the possible eruption of Mount Vesuvius or Campi Flegrei in the Campania Region of Italy. The paper examines responses in relation to conventional construction techniques and building typologies in the area with respect to eruptive phenomena characterization. The reference scenarios that the study is based on have been developed by PLINIVS Centre at the University of Naples Federico II. PLINIVS has elaborated a hazard evaluation tool that takes into account the potential impact of eruptions of Vesuvius and Campi Flegrei, also considering the cumulative effects given by different possible volcanic phenomena. On the basis of this sophisticated and dynamic tool, the paper proposes different alternative mitigation options. Technical and economic implications are also considered: performance indicators for the effectiveness of each technical option, parametric unit cost for each solution provided, and cost-benefit evaluation related to specific impact and damage scenarios.