Application of continuumnization and PDS-FEM for the analysis of wave propagation in brick structures

Abstract

We developed an equivalent continuum form for brick structures based on continuumnization proposed by Hori et al. 1) This allows one to analytically study the characteristic properties of masonry brick walls, and apply numerical techniques used in continuum mechanics to simulate brick structures. Further, the continuum form opens up the possibility of developing simplified models like shells or beams, which will be convenient in designing brick structures. Based on the continuum form, we study how the wave characteristics, like wave speeds, etc., change according to brick arrangement and material properties. Further, we develop a PDS-FEM model 2) for simulating brick structures and verify the developed model comparing numerically obtained wave speeds with that of analytical predictions.