Seismic Vulnerability of Ancient Colonnade

In this chapter, a numerical study to investigate the seismic vulnerability of the two storey colonnade of the Forum in Pompeii has been conducted. Software based on the Distinct Element Method (DEM) of analysis has been used. The colonnade was represented as an assemblage of distinct blocks connected together by zero thickness interfaces which could open and/or close depending on the magnitude and direction of stresses applied to them. Both static and non-linear static analyses have been undertaken. Also, a sensitivity study has been performed to investigate the effect of frictional resistance of the joints on the structural response of the colonnade. This was to simulate potential joint degradation effects and/or possible water lubrication at the joint.