Homogenization of Masonry Using Numerical Simulations

Homogenization is one of the most important steps in the numerical analysis of masonry structures where the continuum method is used. In the present study, equivalent elastic properties, strength envelope, and different failure patterns of masonry material are homogenized by numerically simulating responses of a representative volume element (RVE) under different stress conditions. The RVE is modeled with distinctive consideration of the material properties of mortar and brick. In the numerical simulation, various displacement boundaries are applied on the RVE surfaces to derive the stress-strain relation under different conditions. The equivalent overall material properties of the RVE are averaged by integrating the stresses and strains over