Finite Element Analysis of Masonry RVE Homogenization Procedure

Abstract

Homogenization is one of the most important steps in the numerical analysis of masonry structure, where the continuum is used. A masonry representative volume element (RVE) is formed as the equivalent element of masonry components and it is the most important step in homogenization procedure. The RVE is molded with consideration of the material properties of mortar and brick as well as their interaction separately. In this paper the masonry RVE is simulated with the finite element software ANSYS. The stress-strain relationships of RVE subjected to different types of loading conditions are presented. The equivalent elastic modulus and Poisson's ratio are calculated and the feasibility of finite element method used in the procedure of masonry homogenization is demonstrated.