A PARAMETRIC STUDY OF MASONRY DOMES EQUILIBRIUM VIA A REVISITATION OF THE DURAND-CLAYE METHOD

In this contribution a modern reinterpretation of Durand-Claye’s method (Durand-Claye, 1880) is presented with the aim of checking the equilibrium of masonry domes of revolution characterized by different shapes. The investigation is addressed to spherical and pointed masonry domes, conceived as assemblages of rigid blocks, subject to symmetrical load conditions. Heyman’s hypotheses are adopted. The complex Durand-Claye’s graphical construction is translated into an analytical method in terms of the axial force and bending moment. Furthermore, the action of hoop forces in the dome’s upper portion is accounted for