Discrete element modelling of blocky masonry structures under static and dynamic large displacements: validation against experimental benchmarks

Details

Supervisors

Saraiva Esteves Pacheco De Almeida, João

Faculty

Ecole polytechnique de Louvain

Degree label

Master [120] : ingénieur civil des constructions, à finalité spécialisée

Abstract

This thesis has been dedicated to the modelling of masonry seismic behaviour using the Discrete Element Method (DEM). In response to the recent evolution of numerical methods, particularly DEM, which has shown promising results in this field, this study aimed to address the need for assessing these methods, focusing on the LMGC90 software implemented with the Non Smooth Contact Dynamics (NSCD) method. The presented numerical results are obtained by varying several parameters and are compared against experimental data to explore and evaluate the software's capabilities. In total, five experimental benchmarks, spanning 2D and 3D scenarios in static and dynamic settings, are analysed and simulated throughout this thesis. The first benchmark study will consist of a thorough parametric study, aiming to explore the modelling options offered by the software. The thesis specifically steers the research towards 3D and dynamic benchmarks. Ultimately, the study addresses the complications encountered while simulating 3D structures and discusses potential solutions.

Citations

• APA

Stroobants, A. (2023). Discrete element modelling of blocky masonry structures under static and dynamic large displacements: validation against experimental benchmarks. https://dial-mem.test.bib.ucl.ac.be/handle/2078.2/34716