Structural Evaluation by Use of Dynamic Tests

Detecting structural state of historical monuments and their adequate strengthening is a complex problem that requires cooperation among various specialists. The only way to do that is by non-destructive experiments that are simple and reliable enough. Dynamic tests are the one that fulfill these requirements. The examples of various dynamic tests (ambient vibrations, impulse excitation and transfer function tests) applied on historic structures are presented in this paper. They were used for determination of dynamic characteristics, evaluation of the real structural state, modification of the mathematical model and behavior analysis under extreme events. The modified model, that represents the real structure, was used to investigate the structural response to extreme loadings, to check the influence of various strengthening methods and to choose the best method strengthening for particular structure (if needed).