Collapse simulation of masonry arches induced by spreading supports with the combined finite–discrete element method

Masonry arches are usually composed of individual blocks or voussoirs, which are highly discontinuous and nonlinear, and it is extremely difficult or even impossible to simulate their collapse behavior using finite element methods. Therefore, a combined finite–discrete element method (FDEM) is employed to simulate the collapse behavior of dry-joint masonry arches induced by spreading supports. With finite elements incorporated into discrete elements, both the deformation of arch voussoirs and the interaction between them such as contact can be predicted accurately. Moreover, a cohesive fracture model is implemented to simulate the potential rupture of masonry voussoirs. Based on them, several examples are validated with experiments, and the results indicate that the FDEM is able to simulate the collapse of masonry arches well. Furthermore, a parametric study is conducted on selected geometric and physical parameters to investigate the collapse of masonry arches due to support movements. The influences of friction and voussoir fracture where limited attention was paid to are also examined.