Three-Dimensional Nonlinear Finite Element Analysis of Unreinforced Hit-and-Miss Masonry Walls Subjected to Out-of-Plane Pressure Loading: Horizontal Bending
摘要
Australian architects have shown a growing tendency to utilize hit-and-miss masonry in the past few years. However, it should be noted that hit-and-miss masonry has been used in Australia for several decades. The provisions outlined in the Australian Standard AS3700: Masonry Structures can be employed to address one-way vertical bending in lattice masonry, utilizing a section modulus derived from the net bedded area. However, the regulations for horizontal bending and two-way bending necessitate that all mortar joints must be fully filled in the masonry, thus placing lattice masonry beyond the scope of AS3700 for horizontal and two-way bending. Globally, there is also an absence of comprehensive direction for structural engineers in designing this type of masonry. To assess the horizontal bending capacity of unreinforced hit-and-miss masonry walls, twelve walls, with varying overlaps between units in adjacent courses, were tested at The University of Newcastle, Australia. The experimental results are reported in previous studies. In this paper, three-dimensional (3D) deterministic non-linear finite element (FE) models were developed for hit-and-miss masonry subjected to lateral out-of-plane horizontal bending. The numerical models developed in this study demonstrate a good correlation with trends observed in previously reported experimental results. However, it consistently over-predicts when compared to AS3700. This observation is noteworthy as it underscores the conservative nature of AS3700. Notably, the numerical model can provide a valuable tool for predicting the load capacity of different hit-and-miss wall geometries, enhancing an ability to assess structural performance accurately.