Challenges on computational strategies for masonry structures: homogenization techniques and seismic analysis

Abstract

Masonry is a composite material that can be defined as a material incorporating a visible internal structure and having a low strength in tension. The latter characteristic has shaped most civil engineering structures up to the advent of reinforced concrete and iron/steel. This paper reviews two modeling issues: homogenization techniques, which represent both a popular and active field on masonry research, and seismic safety assessment of modern unreinforced and historic masonry structures, which still poses many challenges to researchers and professionals.