Ancient Chinese wooden structures demonstrate exceptional seismic performance through their unique structural systems. Their core advantage lies in employing semi-rigid connections such as mortise-and-tenon joints and dougong brackets, which effectively dissipate seismic energy via friction, sliding, and rotation. The lightweight, high strength, and toughness of timber further reduce seismic inertial forces and permit plastic deformation. Nevertheless, these ancient structures remain vulnerable to earthquakes, material aging, and biological damage. The core objective of this research is to systematically elucidate the intrinsic seismic mechanisms and damage patterns of traditional Chinese timber structures, while exploring modern reinforcement techniques aligned with the principle of restoring old structures to their original state. Its significance lies in: providing critical technical support for the scientific preservation and safe longevity extension of precious cultural heritage sites like Foguang Temple and the Yingxian Wooden Pagoda; uncovering the seismic wisdom of ancient craftsmen embodied in mortise-and-tenon joints and dougong brackets, exploring their insights and references for modern seismic isolation and energy dissipation theories as well as timber structure design codes; and discussing the seismic safety applications of modern timber structures within the green building trend.
Yuanning Mao (Tue,) studied this question.
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