Finite Element Modeling of Autoclave Aerated Concrete (AAC) Masonry for Estimation of Strength

Abstract

Nowadays, the autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) has become a very common building material used in the construction of buildings/structures. For a load-bearing structure as well as framed structure, in-plane compression is an important mode of failure in the masonry walls. In this work, the finite element micro-modeling, governed by plastic-damage constitutive relation in tension and compression, has been used to model the AAC block and mortar, while cohesive zone modeling strategy is adopted to model the block–mortar interface. The developed model has been used for the estimation of AAC masonry strength. The nature of lateral stress developed due to the application of axial stress is discussed. The comparative study on stress distribution in AAC block and clay brick masonries is also presented. The results obtained from modeling have good agreement with the experimental results. It is envisaged that AAC masonry can be a sustainable option for constructing buildings.