Mesoscale numerical modeling of unreinforced masonry wall response to underground dynamic loads: A comparative study utilizing FEM and DEM

Abstract

This study investigates the response of unreinforced masonry walls to dynamic loading induced by underground explosions. A mesoscale numerical modeling approach is employed to capture the nonlinear behavior of the masonry wall. The Menetrey-Willam yield criterion is utilized to represent the wall's nonlinear behavior at the mesoscale level, while the cohesive zone model (CZM) is employed to simulate the behavior of mortar, thereby overcoming the limitations of linear elasticity. The soil is characterized using the modified Mohr-Coulomb model. After calibration against material characterization tests, a numerical model is developed to obtain results that closely match experimental data. Given the disturbed nature of the crater soil, both finite element and discrete element methods are utilized for soil modeling. Comparison between these methods reveals that the discrete element method yields more realistic results in terms of displacement and strain. The study's findings enhance our understanding of the response of unreinforced masonry walls to dynamic loading and offer valuable insights for future structural designs and safety assessments.