Numerical modelling and experimental validation of the behaviour of brick masonry walls subjected to blast loading

摘要

Masonry walls are one of the most common elements used in all kinds of buildings around the world. Due to the brittle composition of these elements, they may represent a hazard when an explosion occurs. This research is conducted to investigate the performance of different protective solutions applied on brick masonry walls subjected to blast loads. The contribution is focused on the search for a numerical model that can accurately reproduce an explosive event and be used as a prediction tool for the design of buildings against explosions. A numerical model using a detailed micro-modelling approach has been developed for this purpose including non-reinforced walls as well as carbon fibre and glass fibre reinforced walls. The results of the different scenarios simulated are compared with the field test data (six different tests) in terms of pressure, acceleration, and permanent displacements. The results show that the model is reliable. For the retrofitted walls the plastic displacements are slightly underestimated (by less than 10% of the wall depth) but the predicted global response is acceptable in all the cases studied, involving different explosive charges, different protective solutions and mortars of different strength.