ABSTRACT
The earthquake vulnerability of historical pillared dry-stack constructions in granite, of a typology which is widespread in south India, is studied through dynamic uniaxial shake table tests on a full-scale model prepared as per ancient traditional rules for proportioning, dimensioning and construction. The non-linear kinematic method based on the upper bound rigid body limit analysis provide collapse factor and maximum deformation for the governing overturning mechanism, which agree with the results of the dynamic shake table tests. Though these constructions do not have joints articulated between posts, plinths, and lintels, and rely on frictional resistance against seismic action, the capacity of these constructions appear to be adequate for the level of acceleration and displacement demands due to seismic ground shaking in south India.
