Nonlinear Parametric Static Analysis of Rubble Stone Masonry Walls in Lisbon

Abstract

Unreinforced masonry construction is predominant in many urban areas world-wide. Many of these constructions are vulnerable to earthquakes, which are the main cause of damage and loss of cultural heritage. Thus, seismic assessment should be provided in a reliable way by using proper mechanical parameters and an appropriate modeling approach. This paper focus on the numerical study of the in-plane behavior of rubble stone masonry walls with air lime mortar, which is a typical material for old masonry buildings in Lisbon. The first part of the paper is focused on the performance on nonlinear numerical static analysis in order to calibrate the static cyclic experimental tests carried out within the scope of a research project. In the second part, the calibrated models were used to carry out parametric analysis varying the geometrical parameter in terms of ratio h/l and axial load. The modelling approach was executed using software based on the finite element method, DIANA. This parametric assessment is a starting point for further analysis for the entire building with the aim to evaluate efficiently the influence of some input parameters. Regarding the obtained results, the good match between experimental and numerical results was obtained in terms of strength and ductility capacity, as well as in terms of stiffness and failure mode. Results obtained for parametric analysis are presented and discussed.