A Discrete Element Model for Masonry Vaults Strengthened with Externally Bonded Reinforcement

ABSTRACT

The paper investigates the effectiveness of two-dimensional Discrete Element Method as a tool for structural analysis of arches provided with buttresses and backfill and strengthened with externally bonded reinforcement. Masonry vault and buttresses are modelled as an assembly of 2D rigid blocks interacting through non-linear contact joints, the backfill is discretized into deformable elastic-plastic triangular elements, while the reinforcement is modelled by means of truss elements bonded to the substrate through non-linear springs. A parametric analysis on the influence of material parameters and the effect of the discretization of the backfill is carried out, and the outcome of different reinforcement systems, consisting of Steel Reinforced Grout applied either at the intrados or at the extrados, are analysed. The comparison with experimental full-scale tests proved the ability of the numerical approach to capture hinges position, load bearing capability, as well as the increase in deflection and load capacity provided by the reinforcement.

KEYWORDS:

• Discrete Element Method
• masonry
• numerical modelling
• Steel Reinforced Grout
• strengthening
• textile reinforced mortar
• vaults

Acknowledgements

This work was carried out within the Research Projects SiCura, sustainable technologies for the seismic protection of the cultural heritage (Years 2018–2020, Protocol No. 15136) funded by Regione Lazio. Funding is acknowledged also from the Italian Civil Protection Department, through the ReLUIS 2019–2021 Research Project.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by the Dipartimento della Protezione Civile, Presidenza del Consiglio dei Ministri [ReLUIS 2019–2021 Research Project];Regione Lazio [Research Projects SiCura, Sustainable technologies].