2D-DEM modelling of the formwork removal of a rubble stone masonry bridge

Abstract

This study aims to determine the mechanical behaviour of a stone arch bridge during the phase of the formwork removal. This operation is the most delicate during construction, because it puts in charge the arch which must work in compression for stability. On-site measurements of the displacement of the arch voussoirs during the process of the formwork removal were carried out. Then, some mechanical tests were performed with the stones used in the construction to determine the mechanical properties required for modelling the structure by a discrete element method. This numerical approach has the ability to find the specific pattern of the displacement field observed on-site that could not have been found with a finite element method. The key feature is the rotation of the voussoirs which changes the location of the zones of contact from one to another. Therefore, the contacts from one to another are restricted to a small zone for the voussoirs close to the keystone.