A Constitutive Three-Dimensional Interface Model for Masonry Walls subjected to High Strain Rates

Abstract

Investigation of the dynamic properties of construction materials is critical for structural engineering. The strain rate effect influences the properties of most constructions materials and this effect on materials such as concrete or steel has been intensively investigated. However, such studies on masonry materials are scarce. Understanding the strain rate effect on masonry materials is important for proper modelling and design of masonry structures under high velocity impacts or blast loads. The work, described in this paper, aims to study the behaviour of masonry at different strain rates. First, a drop weight impact machine is used at different heights and weights introducing different levels of strain rate. Then, a dynamic constitutive material interface model that includes an non-associated flow rule and high strain rate effects is proposed. The model capability is validated with numerical simulations of unreinforced block work masonry walls subjected to impact.