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Structural Assessment of a Masonry Vault Using the Distinct Element Method
The study of the structural behavior of masonry vaults using reliable numerical tools still represents a challenging topic due to their complex geometry and mechanical behavior. In this paper, advanced numerical models of an existing masonry sail vault situated in the Northwest part of Italy are discussed. Initially, based on in-situ surveys, the three-dimensional geometry of the structure is created using a modeling software closely representing the actual brick arrangement and shape of the vault. Then, the geometry is converted into block assemblies and analyzed using the commercial software 3DEC, which is based on the Distinct Element Method (DEM). Masonry is represented as an assembly of linear elastic blocks connected by zero-thickness Mohr-Coulomb interfaces, while the backfill material as a continuum mesh based on the plasticity theory. The vault structural behavior and level of safety are then assessed under gravity loads, in-plan distortions as well as lateral support movements. Starting from the most accurate model and considering the computational effort usually associated with large-scale block assemblies, an alternative model was created by gradually simplifying the actual vault texture, thereby decreasing the number of employed blocks. The results obtained using different levels of modeling complexity are then compared and discussed, providing useful insights for similar modeling scenarios.
Structural Assessment of a Masonry Vault Using the Distinct Element Method
The study of the structural behavior of masonry vaults using reliable numerical tools still represents a challenging topic due to their complex geometry and mechanical behavior. In this paper, advanced numerical models of an existing masonry sail vault situated in the Northwest part of Italy are discussed. Initially, based on in-situ surveys, the three-dimensional geometry of the structure is created using a modeling software closely representing the actual brick arrangement and shape of the vault. Then, the geometry is converted into block assemblies and analyzed using the commercial software 3DEC, which is based on the Distinct Element Method (DEM). Masonry is represented as an assembly of linear elastic blocks connected by zero-thickness Mohr-Coulomb interfaces, while the backfill material as a continuum mesh based on the plasticity theory. The vault structural behavior and level of safety are then assessed under gravity loads, in-plan distortions as well as lateral support movements. Starting from the most accurate model and considering the computational effort usually associated with large-scale block assemblies, an alternative model was created by gradually simplifying the actual vault texture, thereby decreasing the number of employed blocks. The results obtained using different levels of modeling complexity are then compared and discussed, providing useful insights for similar modeling scenarios.
Structural Assessment of a Masonry Vault Using the Distinct Element Method
Lecture Notes in Civil Engineering
Milani, Gabriele (editor) / Ghiassi, Bahman (editor) / Furiosi, Alessia (author) / Damiani, Nicolò (author) / Penna, Andrea (author)
International Brick and Block Masonry Conference ; 2024 ; Birmingham, United Kingdom
2024-12-13
11 pages
Article/Chapter (Book)
Electronic Resource
English
| Taylor & Francis Verlag | 2024
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