This paper investigates the possibility of using classical first order computational homogenization together with a simple regularization procedure based on the fracture energy of the micro-scale-constituents. A generalized geometrical characteristic length takes into account the size of the macro-scale element as well as the size of the RVE (and its constituents). The proposed regularization ensures objectivity of the dissipated energy at the macro-scale, with respect to the size of the FE in both scales and with respect to the size of the RVE. The proposed method is first validated against benchmark examples, and finally applied to the numerical simulation of experimental tests on in-plane loaded shear walls made of periodic masonry.
A novel damage mechanics-based continuous micro-model for the analysis of masonry-walls is presented and compared with other two well-known discrete micro-models. The discrete micro-models discretize masonry micro-structure with nonlinear interfaces for mortar-joints, and continuum elements for units. The proposed continuous micro-model discretizes both units and mortar-joints with continuum elements, making use of a tension/compression damage model, here refined to properly reproduce the nonlinear response under shear and to control the dilatancy. The three investigated models are validated against experimental results. They all prove to be similarly effective, with the proposed model being less time-consuming, due to the efficient format of the damage model. Critical issues for these types of micro-models are analysed carefully, such as the accuracy in predicting the failure load and collapse mechanism, the computational efficiency and the level of approximation given by a 2D plane-stress assumption.Peer ReviewedPostprint (author's final draft
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