Large displacement analysis of dry-jointed masonry structures subjected to settlements using rigid block modelling. (1st October 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Portioli, Francesco; Cascini, Lucrezia
• Is Part Of: Engineering structures. Volume 148(2017:Oct. 01)
• Page Start: 485
• Page End: 496
• Publication Date: 2017-10-01
• Subjects: Masonry block structures -- Settlement -- Support collapse displacements -- Rigid block modelling -- Incremental limit equilibrium analysis -- Linear programming; Structural engineering -- Periodicals; Structural analysis (Engineering) -- Periodicals; Construction, Technique de la -- Périodiques; Génie parasismique -- Périodiques; Pression du vent -- Périodiques; Earthquake engineering; Structural engineering; Wind-pressure; Periodicals; 624.105
• DOI: 10.1016/j.engstruct.2017.06.073
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0141-0296

Abstract

Highlights: A 2D rigid block model for masonry structures subjected to settlement is presented. Large displacements are modelled by a sequential procedure based on limit analysis. The contact problem is formulated as a linear programming problem using gap functions. Experimental tests were carried out for validation. Collapse displacements at moving supports are successfully predicted. Abstract: A discrete element model is proposed for large displacement static analysis of dry-jointed masonry structures subjected to foundation settlements. The numerical model is a two-dimensional assemblage of rigid blocks interacting at no-tension, frictional contact interfaces with infinite compressive strength. The static contact problem associated to the proposed model is formulated as a linear mathematical programming problem and an incremental procedure is implemented to take into account large displacements. Experimental tests were carried out on small scale panels with opening subjected to imposed settlements to validate the proposed model. Comparisons in terms of failure modes and maximum allowable support displacements just before the collapse are presented. An experimental case study from the literature related to a masonry arch on spreading support is also analyzed for validation. On the basis of the obtained results, the accuracy and the computational efficiency of the formulation adopted are discussed.