Correlation studies for the in-plane analysis of masonry walls based on macroscopic FE models with damage

Abstract

This study explores the use of macro-modelling techniques based on smeared crack and damage-plastic constitutive laws for the cyclic in-plane analysis of masonry panels. The numerical investigation is focused on two material macromechanical models, known as Total Strain Cracking and Crack and Plasticity models. These show some limitations when analysing the behaviour of masonry structures subjected to in-plane cyclic loading. A modified version of the Drucker-Prager model including cohesive softening is introduced to overcome these shortcomings.A suite of numerical simulations is performed referring to an experimental campaign on two masonry (squat and slender) panels. A comparison of distinctive features of flexural and shear response of masonry panels is addressed. The results derived from the two FE macro-models are compared with the experimental outcomes, highlighting the effects of geometry, stiffness degradation, and post-peak energy dissipation. Furthermore, a comparison with another macromechanical model is performed.