Le Roux, Jeandré Stefan2018-02-202018-02-202017Le Roux, Jeandré Stefan (2017) The optimisation and design of catenary barrel vaults for excessive wind load, University of the Witwatersrand, <https://hdl.handle.net/10539/24035>https://hdl.handle.net/10539/24035A research report submitted to the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science in Engineering. Johannesburg 2017The present study investigates the possibility of designing a catenary barrel vault, which can be implemented in regions where extreme tropical storms are frequently experienced. It moreover investigated the effect of non-uniform wind loads on catenary barrel vaults, and how to solve for these load conditions efficiently. The effects of high, non-uniform wind loads were assessed, and possible solutions were explored to determine a structurally efficient solution in resisting the loads applied. Different analysis and design techniques were explored in this research. These techniques included the optimization of the geometry, in resisting the applied loads most efficiently, as well as the structural design of the section in ensuring a durable and safe structure. The study revealed that the geometry of the structure cannot be optimised to resist the applied loads in a catenary fashion without external aid. By draping the vault in a post-tensioned basalt geogrid mesh, axial compression can be increased in the section and geometry optimisation can be achieved in resisting the applied loads in a catenary fashion. Three post-tensioning techniques were investigated and discussed.Online resource (xxiii, 286 leaves)enVaults (Architecture)--Design and constructionCatenaryBuildings--AerodynamicsStructural designWindstorms--South AfricaWind-pressureWind resistant designThesis