ABSTRACT
This chapter is concerned with the application of graphic statics to the limit state analysis of structures. It deals with graphic statics and its application to the limit analysis of a trussed framework, some bended structures and to a simple masonry arch. The chapter presents the research within the context of plastic theory in order to make use of the three fundamental theorems of plasticity. Plastic theory and limit state analysis provides powerful theoretical tools to understand their stability. Initially formulated for steel structures presenting a certain degree of hyperstaticity, plastic theory could advantageously be applied to masonry structures providing certain assumptions were made on the materials. The incomplete knowledge of the actual composition of historical masonry structures and of their history of loading or movements makes the use of limit analyses particularly appropriate for structural assessment. The application of the static theorem of plasticity to the isostatic simply supported beam gives a lower value for the load factor.
