Numerical Analysis of Masonry Structures by Finite Discrete Element Model

This paper presents numerical model based on the finite discrete element method for the analysis and prediction of the collapse of masonry structures with mortar joints and dry stone masonry structures. The model consists of a numerical model in a finite element, contact interaction algorithm which simulates the interaction between stone blocks in dry joint and numerical model in an interface element which simulate the behavior of the mortar joints and unit-mortar interface. The verification of the model was performed on examples by comparing it with the results obtained with the known numerical and experimental results from literature.