Evaluating the Seismic Capacity of Dry-Joint Masonry Arch Structures via the Combined Finite-Discrete Element Method

The behaviour of dry-joint masonry arch structures is highly nonlinear and discontinuous since they are composed individual discrete blocks. These vulnerable to seismic excitations. It difficult for traditional methods like the standard finite element method (FEM) simulate failure due their intrinsic limitations. An advanced computational approach, i.e., combined finite-discrete (FDEM), was employed in this study examine first-order capacity arches buttressed with different shapes subjected gravity constant horizontal acceleration. Within framework FDEM, blocks discretised into elements. A formulation implemented each element, providing accurate predictions deformation block contact interactions between Numerical examples presented validated results from existing literature, demonstrating that FDEM capable capturing capacities hinge locations structures. Further simulations on geometric parameters friction coefficient were conducted, influences revealed.