Comparing 2D and 3D finite element simplified micro-models of unreinforced masonry

Resumo

Finite element models of masonry walls play an important role in the analysis of these structures, avoiding the need for costly physical experiments. With advances in technology, both 2D and 3D models have become viable for analyzing walls with in-plane loads, but there is no work dedicated to comparatively showing the efficiency of each approach. The objective of this study is to compare 2D and 3D simplified micro-models of unreinforced masonry to make possible an informed choice of which model to use. First, an experimental study is selected to be simulated, then the modeling methods and data are defined. Both models use the extended finite element method (XFEM) to simulate cracks, the bilinear cohesive law, the Benzeggagh-Kenane law, and the quadratic nominal stress criterion to model damage, and the Drucker Prager plastic model to characterize the nonlinear behavior of the quasi-brittle materials. The results are discussed and compared, showing the advantages and disadvantages of using the 2D model. In most cases, using the 3D model is unjustifiable, because processing time is twenty-eight times longer for only subtle differences in the physical aspects compared to the 2D model.