FEM/DEM Approach for the Analysis of Masonry Arch Bridges

The problem of masonry arch bridges load carrying capacity is studied by means of a coupled FEM/DEM 2D approach. The numerical model relies into a triangular discretization of the domain with embedded crack elements that activate whenever the peak strength is reached. The proposed approach can be regarded as a combination between Finite Elements allowing for the reproduction of elastic strain into continuum and DEM, suitable to model frictional cohesive behavior exhibited by masonry structures even at very low levels of external loads. The aforementioned numerical approach is applied to masonry arch bridges interacting with infill. A preliminary validation of the procedure is addressed for the prediction of the masonry arches limit state behavior where the stones are supposed infinite resistant and plastic hinges can occur exclusively on mortar joints, modeled as cohesive frictional interfaces. The sensitivity of the infill role varying mechanical properties of the infill is extensively discussed.