On the definition of the line of thrust

O. Gaspar, I. Sajtos

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

3 Scopus citations

Abstract

Thrust line analysis of masonry construction has a centuries-old tradition. The controversies still present in the literature regarding the properties or the construction of the line of thrust led us to investigate the limitations and possibilities of this method. Based on our research we created a formal, generally applicable definition of the line of thrust, establishing the framework within which the definition is relevant. The paper discusses the discrepancies between the true characteristics of the line of thrust and its associated properties, which is illustrated through the study of the masonry straight arch, taking into account various stereotomies. In order to showthe potential of the formal definition applied within the minimum thickness analysis, the case of the semi-circular arch of homogenous masonry is revisited. The proposed stereotomies result formally admissible thrust lines to thinner arches than previously published - indicating that finding a limiting case might be the true challenge.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationStructural Analysis of Historical Constructions
Subtitle of host publicationAnamnesis, diagnosis, therapy, controls - Proceedings of the 10th International Conference on Structural Analysis of Historical Constructions, SAHC 2016
EditorsKoen Van Balen, Els Verstrynge, Koen Van Balen
PublisherCRC Press/Balkema
Pages1003-1010
Number of pages8
ISBN (Print)9781138029514
StatePublished - 2016
Event10th International Conference on Structural Analysis of Historical Constructions, SAHC 2016 - Leuven, Belgium
Duration: Sep 13 2016Sep 15 2016

Publication series

NameStructural Analysis of Historical Constructions: Anamnesis, diagnosis, therapy, controls - Proceedings of the 10th International Conference on Structural Analysis of Historical Constructions, SAHC 2016

Conference

Conference10th International Conference on Structural Analysis of Historical Constructions, SAHC 2016
Country/TerritoryBelgium
CityLeuven
Period9/13/169/15/16

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Safety Research
  • Civil and Structural Engineering
  • Building and Construction
  • Architecture

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