Authors:
Mohamed A. H. Abdel-Halim; Ziad Al-Saad;
Abstract:
Site investigation was made in order to assess and evaluate the existing structural conditions of Qasr al-Bint. The damage and deterioration forms of the structure were mapped and represented by schematic drawings and pictures and their causes were defined. A conservation program is suggested in order to preserve the artistic
and historical values of this monument and to strengthen it against any possible earthquake in the future. The conservation program must utilize the same materials and suitable techniques used locally. The program must restore the horizontal diaphragms of the floor over the interior section and the roof of the whole building and ensure that these diaphragms are well interconnected to the walls. The conservation program must provide adequate reinforced concrete tie beams at the middle third of the wall thickness and below the horizontal diaphragms. These tie beams can be arranged in a two-dimensional grid along the wall lines and can be wrapped by polystyrene or isolation sheets to protect the sandstones from any adverse effects that may result from the concrete.
Keywords:
Heritage structures, Deterioration, Repair, Cracking, Weathering forms, Conservation, Qasr al-Bint, Petra, Jordan