Pre- and post-simulations of shake-table tests on a stone masonry building aggregate using finite-discrete elements

Abstract This work presents the simulations of non-linear dynamic response a three-dimensional finite-discrete element model. The model simulates half-scale masonry building aggregate tested on shake table by other Authors. is made two un-connected units having different heights and slightly wall thicknesses. floors are timber beams boards. modelling approach accounts jointly for in-plane out-of-plane responses, which can be expected given high flexibility floors, separation between units. related both to blind predictions, according scheduled testing sequence, post-dictions actual sequence some calibrations. prediction overestimates displacements, underestimates base shear fairly predicts damage pattern comparable experimental runs. use recorded motion improves accuracy post-diction simulations, while still delivering beam unseating. A higher Young’s modulus blocks markedly predictions. strengthening intervention with steel angles connecting walls only approximately modelled does not improve outcomes simulations. In summary, adopted capable accounting pounding units, predicting most significant as well estimating approximate average peak values individual time histories less accurately estimated.