Abstract:
The paper investigates the effectiveness of two-dimensional Discrete Element Method as a tool for
structural analysis of arches provided with buttresses and backfill and strengthened with externally
bonded reinforcement. Masonry vault and buttresses are modelled as an assembly of 2D
rigid blocks interacting through non-linear contact joints, the backfill is discretized into deformable
elastic-plastic triangular elements, while the reinforcement is modelled by means of truss
elements bonded to the substrate through non-linear springs. A parametric analysis on the
influence of material parameters and the effect of the discretization of the backfill is carried
out, and the outcome of different reinforcement systems, consisting of Steel Reinforced Grout
applied either at the intrados or at the extrados, are analysed. The comparison with experimental
full-scale tests proved the ability of the numerical approach to capture hinges position, load
bearing capability, as well as the increase in deflection and load capacity provided by the
reinforcement.