• Journal of the Computational Structural Engineering Institute of Korea
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• v.22 no.1
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• pp.15-23
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• 2009

Masonry structures that are very strong in compression fail due to the instability of structural shape of geometry rather than the material stress limit. Considering such structural behavior, the use of the limit theorem that focuses on structural collapse mechanisms is more appropriate for the evaluation of the structural safety of stone voussoir arch bridges. This paper is to investigate structural performance of the stone arch bridges constructed using dry construction method in Korea based on the limit theorem and to exploit the result to develop a system for an structural safety margin. It is expected that this study will help us understand structural behavior of stone voussoir arch bridges in Korea. Also, it will provide a guideline to make engineering decision from the viewpoint of the maintenance of cultural heritages.