A macro-element model for the assessment of tunnelling-induced damage to masonry buildings

Abstract

This paper introduces a computationally-efficient numerical modelling strategy to assess the risk of tunnelling-induced damage to masonry buildings. Building components are idealised with two dimensional (2D) quadrilateral elements incorporating constant shear strain within each element. The flexural behaviour of the quadrilateral elements is governed by surrounding zero-thickness, deformable, interfaces. Soil-foundation interaction behaviour is modelled with one dimensional (1D) footing elements interacting with a Winkler soil-foundation model. Tunnelling-induced ground movements are prescribed at the base of the soil-foundation model. This ‘macro-element’ modelling approach is used to examine the response of an isolated elastic masonry facade founded on a strip footing to tunnelling-induced ground movements. Results from the macro-element model are compared to a benchmark analysis employing a 2D continuum finite elements to represent the facade. These comparisons demonstrate that a relatively coarse mesh of macro-elements is sufficient to capture the response of the facade to tunnelling-induced ground movements.