Experimental Investigation of Dual-Block Stack Overturing Due To Base Excitation

Abstract

After binder failure, rocking is an important mode in dynamic response of historical monuments, dry-stone structures, graphite blocks in AGR core in nuclear power plants, and masonry structures. Here we experimentally address rocking and overturning conditions of a dual-block stack subject to base excitation. We observe the behaviour of a stack of two equal blocks with two different contacts and stacks consisting of blocks of various slenderness. A significant difference between the behaviour of stacks with different contact is noticed. Also, the change in the overturning conditions of stack consisting of equal blocks and different blocks is presented.