Seismic vulnerability study of Soltaniyeh dome using nonlinear static and dynamic analyses

A seismic vulnerability study of the Soltaniyeh dome, the world's largest brick dome and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, reveals significant structural weaknesses under seismic loads. The research, employing finite element modeling (FEM) validated by experimental data, identified critical crack formation and propagation originating from openings on the second and third floors during a 475-year return period earthquake. Nonlinear static and dynamic analyses demonstrated that while the dome performs adequately under gravity loads, its top is particularly vulnerable to seismic stress, necessitating urgent rehabilitation efforts.

Kalantari, H., Nasserasadi, K., & Arjmandi, S. A. (2018). Seismic vulnerability study of Soltaniyeh dome using nonlinear static and dynamic analyses. International Journal of Advanced Structural Engineering, 10(4), 367–380. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40091-018-0203-3