Nondestructive Tree Planting for Reducing the Wind Loads of a Historical Wooden Pagoda

Abstract

Historical wooden pagodas are found in several Asian countries and are considered priceless world heritage values due to their majestic appearance and exquisite manufacturing techniques. Over time, the structure may occur inclination due to the wind action. This study presents a nondestructive method based on trees that can reduce wind pressures and loads on the wooden pagoda. The methodology was applied to the Yingxian wooden pagoda in China, a site of great historical interest. The feasibility and effectiveness of the methodology were validated through wind tunnel tests. A refined model of the wooden pagoda, with a scale ratio of 1∶50, was fabricated and tested. Wind pressure coefficients and shelter effects of the pagoda with and without trees were analyzed. Additionally, wind base loads and reduction rates of pagoda with various tree arrangements are calculated and discussed, and the suggested tree arrangements are proposed. Though the discussion of the study, the study shows that the proposed nondestructive method can effectively reduce wind loads and actions with an average reduction rate of 12%. The height of the trees significantly affects the shelter effect of the tree blockings. This study provides a useful reference for protecting historical pagodas with similar profiles.