On the stability of colonnade structural systems under static and dynamic loading conditions

The structural behavior of colonnade structural systems subjected to static and dynamic loading is investigated to identify the main factors affecting the stability and to improve our understanding of their behaviour. In particular, the discrete element method of analysis is utilised to study the static and dynamic behaviour of a typical section of the two storey colonnade of the Forum in Pompeii. Static analysis indicated that the failure of colonnade structures occur at higher friction angles as the weight above the structure decreases and so a sudden collapse can occur when parts of the monument are disassembled. For the dynamic analysis, the mechanical behavior of the colonnade was investigated for both harmonic and real seismic excitations. For excitations with relatively low dominant frequencies, the primary response is rocking; as the excitation frequency increases, the response becomes more complicated demonstrating both sliding and rocking movements. It was also shown that the construction methods used in ancient times, such as multi-block segmented trabeations and solid block beam, have quite significant impact on the mechanical response of the structures under static and dynamic loading.