Evaluation of the influence of masonry walls on the soil-structure interaction mechanism through computational modeling of a reinforced concrete building

Resumo

The present study aims to investigate the influence of masonry walls on the soil-structure interaction mechanism for a reinforced concrete building. For this purpose, two finite element models are developed using the SAP2000 program, namely: (i) a three-dimensional model without masonry walls and (ii) a three-dimensional model with discretized masonry walls. The latter model, closer to reality, provides greater stiffness in the superstructure. In the analysis, both fixed supports and spring supports are employed. The results of the model with discretized masonry walls are similar to those of the model without masonry walls, i.e., when considering the soil-structure interaction, a redistribution of forces in the structural elements was observed. Peripheral columns showed an increase in demand while the central column showed a reduction in demand. There was a tendency for uniformization of differential settlements especially in the model with discretized masonry walls, and also an increase in positive bending moments in the spans and negative bending moments in the peripheral supports of the central beam at the ground level. That is, if the structural design does not consider settlements (as in the case of a design without soil-structure interaction), settlements can lead to localized plasticizations in the beams. Thus, the importance of refined models is perceived, and also, in cases where settlements are significant, the effect of soil-structure interaction is relevant in the design, not only of foundations, but also of the structure.