Study on the Bisotun Epigraph Damaging Process

Bisotun epigraph is one of the most important traditional monuments of Hakhamaneshi Period which was made 30km far from Kermanshah, about 2500 to 2600 years ago. This epigraph is damaged due to different factors such as erosion and fluid flow which have made some damages such as cracks and karstic holes. Here we study the reason of these damages and their effects on epigraph behavior. Analysis results show that pressure of the rock mass around the epigraph makes a loading which induces some displacements and cracks. To limit these damages in future, we must consider some solutions to decrease the mentioned pressure values. Also, some parts of the epigraph are affected by tensile stresses. Although these stresses are not much intensive, continuing some processes such as limestone dissolution, weathering and creep cause rock mass strength reduction, then fracture initiation and propagation from these parts will be probable. Thus, we need to consider appropriate solutions to prevent water flow toward epigraph surface, to decrease weathering and to reduce the effects of another negative major factors. These solutions seems to be more essential when we expect the epigraph to be in an appropriate condition for a long time.

Study on the Bisotun Epigraph Damaging Process Keywords:

Bisotun epigraph , damage , crack , erosion , karstic , fracture initiation and propagation , weathering , dissolution