Strengthening techniques for masonry domes: A review

Abstract

Historical masonry domes are an important part of the architectural and engineering heritage in the World. They have been extensively used to cover the spaces of temples, mausoleums, palaces, forts, baths, churches, mosques, etc. Damages and collapses of masonry domes occurred as a result of earthquakes or lack of maintenance. Therefore, many efforts have been devoted to clarifying the theoretical and experimental responses of masonry domes by researchers. In addition to traditional techniques, significant developments have been achieved on the strengthening of masonry domes using innovative techniques. The study firstly presents a complete review on the state of knowledge about theoretical and experimental responses and strengthening of masonry domes under static and dynamic loads. Then crack patterns and failure mechanisms of masonry domes are explained, and traditional and innovative strengthening techniques that can be rehabilitated the masonry dome without any harmful intervention or disagreement with conservation principles are introduced and evaluated in detail.