Abstract

In-plane cyclic loading of masonry walls induces a complex failure pattern composed of multiple diagonal shear cracks, as well as flexural cracks. The realistic modelling of such induced localized cracking necessitates the use of costly direct numerical simulations with detailed information on both the properties and geometry of masonry components. On the contrary, computationally efficient macro-models using standard smeared-crack approaches often result in a poor representation of fracture in the simulated material, not properly localized and biased by the finite element mesh orientation. This work proposes a possible remedy to these drawbacks of macro-models through the use of a crack-tracking algorithm. The macro-modelling approach results in an affordable computational cost, while the tracking algorithm aids the mesh-bias independent and localized representation of cracking. A novel methodology is presented that allows the simulation of intersecting and multi-directional cracks using tracking algorithms. This development extends the use of localized crack approaches using tracking algorithms to a wider field of applications exhibiting multiple, arbitrary and interacting cracking. The paper presents also a novel formulation including into an orthotropic damage model the description of irreversible deformations under shear loading. The proposed approach is calibrated through the comparison with an experimental test on a masonry shear wall against in-plane cyclic loading.

Abstract

The paper provides a novel Lower Bound (LB) Limit Analysis (LA) Finite Element (FE) model for the study at failure of masonry walls in two-way bending by means of full 3D elements. The method of hexahedral discretization is used, while assuming infinite resistance and a quadrilateral interface where all plastic dissipation occurs. It can more accurately analyze the collapse mechanism of masonry panels in the process of two-way bending. It chose two cases to study. They are three series of panels with and without perforations tested at collapse at the University of Adelaide Australia and four series of solid and perforated panels tested at the University of Plymouth UK. The feasibility of the research method was verified. The obtained research results show that the use of the method proposed allows to provide a safe prediction of the existing LA code based on kinematics theorem, with a small computational burden, and the obtained results are more in line with the actual situation and have better practical effects.T The original abstract is titled: 'Out of Plane Lower Bound Limit Analysis'

Abstract

In this work a numerical model to obtain the pushover curves of clay masonry walls with openings is presented. These curves represent the non-linear structural behavior of masonry walls with openings subjected to loads in their own plane. The openings represent non-structural elements like doors, windows, among others. These walls can be considered as reinforced or confined masonry and the opening must be rectangular and may have different dimensions and a variable position inside the wall. The main result of the model was a pushover curve, which is compared with the curves obtained from laboratory tests (for walls with and without openings). The model was developed using the software ANSYS [1] version 14.5, based on the model proposed by Campbell and Durán [2].

Abstract