• Journal of the Korean Geophysical Society
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• v.5 no.3
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• pp.199-209
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• 2002

We have carried out a nondestructive close examination for the purpose of the structural safety diagnosis of the Dabo Pagoda of Bulkuk temple located in Kyungju, Kyungbuk Korea. For estimating the mechanical properties of each rock block of the pagoda, ultrasonic measurements were conducted at 641 points of 255 blocks. The P-wave velocity ranges from 584m/sec through 5,169m/sec, and averages 2,901m/sec Based on this result, the uniaxial compressive strength was estimated to be $93{\sim}1,943kg/cm^2\;with\;396kg/cm^2$ of average, and the index of weathering is $0.07{\sim}0.88$ with 0.43 of average, which means the moderate degree of weathering. The comparison of the rock strength of each block with the overburden acting on the block reveals that the rock blocks related to the structure of the pagoda are relatively sound for uniform stress, but it is highly possible for a concentrated stress to lead to a partial failure. We suggest a monitoring of cracks due to the concentrated stress. The parapets of 1st and 2nd floors composed of small rock pieces are severely weathered. However, this is not directly related to the structural safety of the pagoda.