Title: Numerical analysis of masonry structures by finite-discrete element model

Authors: Željana Nikolić; Hrvoje Smoljanović; Nikolina Živaljić

Addresses: Faculty of Civil Engineering, Architecture and Geodesy, University of Split, Matice hrvatske 15, Split 21000, Croatia ' Faculty of Civil Engineering, Architecture and Geodesy, University of Split, Matice hrvatske 15, Split 21000, Croatia ' Faculty of Civil Engineering, Architecture and Geodesy, University of Split, Matice hrvatske 15, Split 21000, Croatia

Abstract: This paper presents numerical model based on the finite-discrete element method for the analysis and prediction of the collapse of masonry structures with mortar joints and dry stone masonry structures. The model consists of a numerical model in a finite element, contact interaction algorithm which simulates the interaction between stone blocks in dry joint and numerical model in an interface element which simulates the behaviour of the mortar joints and unit-mortar interface. The verification of the model was performed on examples by comparing it with the known numerical and experimental results from literature.

Keywords: dry stone masonry structures; finite-discrete element method; dry stone walls; numerical simulation; modelling; mortar joints; discrete element method; DEM; finite element method; FEM; masonry collapse; stone blocks; dry joints.

DOI: 10.1504/IJMRI.2016.081269

International Journal of Masonry Research and Innovation, 2016 Vol.1 No.4, pp.330 - 350

Received: 23 Dec 2015
Accepted: 01 Jul 2016
Published online: 01 Jan 2017 *