A macro-block model for in-plane loaded masonry walls with non-associative Coulomb friction

This paper presents a macro-block model and a simplified procedure for the prediction of the collapse load and the failure mechanism of in-plane loaded masonry walls, with non-associative frictional contact interfaces. The macro-block modeling is based on the assumption that the failure involves a single crack where all the possible relative motions among micro-blocks are concentrated. Two limiting conditions for the ultimate load factor are kinematically computed in closed form, by use of minimization routines of limit analysis. The results are compared against micro-block modeling and other macro-block models through a few illustrative examples and a parametric analysis. The influence of the main mechanical and geometrical parameters, such as unit aspect, scale effect, overload and friction is also shown. ?????? 2013 Springer Science+Business Media Dordrecht.