Numerical evaluation of seismic-induced damages in masonry elements of historical arch viaduct

Abstract

The main purpose of this research was to estimate the seismic response of the historical masonry arch viaduct located in Krakow (Southern Poland) subjected to the representative strong seismic event. For the numerical evaluation a 3D finite element model (FEM) of the masonry viaduct was assembling with the ABAQUS/Standard software program. To represent nonlinear behaviour of the masonry structural elements of the viaduct under the strong seismic event, a Barcelona Model (BM) was assumed as a constitutive material model. Three components of the registered strong seismic shock were applied as kinematic excitation acting in three directions. The results of the numerical simulation showed that evident nonlinear behaviour of the masonry structural elements of the viaduct was observed under the earthquake. The plastic strains as well as the tensile damage (cracking) were obtained in some zones of the walls of the structure after seismic shock. On the basis of the obtained results authors also discussed the methodology for structural health monitoring (SHM) as well as seismic retrofitting which could be dedicated for historical masonry arch viaducts and bridges.