DIAGNOSIS PROCESSES FOR DESERT ROSE DOMES OF THE SOUF REGION IN ALGERIA

Abstract. In the Souf region of Algeria, all vernacular buildings are covered by domes, built with an unusual building material, the desert rose stone, peculiar to the region. These domes represent an element of identity of the region and describe a unique urban landscape that deserves to be protected and enhanced. Unfortunately, these architectural elements have suffered damage that devalues the urban landscape compromising their conservation. In particular, many domes have severe cracks and have collapsed in large areas.

Diagnostic investigations were carried out with the aim to understand the causes of the damages and to carry out guidelines for consolidation.

In particular, in situ surveys have allowed to analyze the employed construction technique, the collection of samples for the chemical-physical and mechanical investigations of the materials and a manual geometric survey of a typical building module. In addition, a Finite Element Model of a building module was realized with the aim of investigating structural behavior.

Considerations were made on the influence of the dome shape on structural behaviour and on the fractures pattern detected in many domes.