Non-linear Finite Element Analysis of Masonry Arches for Prediction of Collapse Load

Abstract

The paper presents a summary of experimental and theoretical investigations on the load carrying capacity of masonry arch bridges. The experimental program includes static testing of two arches constructed in the heavy testing laboratory. Tests were also conducted on control specimens to investigate the properties of the masonry employed in the construction of the arches. The details of the two-dimensional non-linear finite element computer program developed for the analysis and load prediction of the masonry arch bridges are given. The program takes into account the non-linearity due to the non-linear stress-strain relationship and the cracking of the masonry. The load test results of the arches are compared with the results of a finite element analysis.