Numerical Modeling of CSEB Masonry

Introduction

The proper use of earthen construction materials requires to numerically model the structural behavior of earthen masonry in an accurate and robust manner, similar to what is routinely done for other modern construction materials. However, earthen construction presents a series of peculiar and still unsolved issues when compared to other materials and even to ordinary masonry.

Our research develops analytical and numerical models for robust and accurate structural response analysis of earthen masonry using nonlinear finite element analysis. Our work considers different scales of modeling (from the masonry element to entire structures), and aims to bridge the gaps between these different scales through the development of new constitutive models, iteration algorithms, and modeling techniques.

 

Related Publications

  • Kumar N and Barbato M (2018). “Towards an efficient and robust simplified micro-model for analyzing masonry shear walls.” Proceedings (abstract), 2018 Engineering Mechanics Institute Conference (EMI2018), May 29-June 1, 2018, MIT, Cambridge, MA (USA). (Link)
  • Kumar N and Barbato M (2019). “A new constitutive model for interface elements in finite element modeling of masonry.” Journal of Engineering Mechanics (ASCE), 145(5): 04019022. (Link)

  • Kumar N and Barbato M (2019). “An efficient and robust interface element constitutive model for finite-element modeling of masonry.” Proceedings (abstract), 2019 International Mechanical Engineering Congress & Exposition® (IMECE 2019), November 11-14, 2019, Salt Lake City, UT (USA).

Funded Projects Supporting this Research

  • A novel hurricane-resistant housing construction system

PI: Barbato, M.

Co-PI: None

Sponsor: Louisiana Board of Regents, NSF EPSCoR, through LSU Graduate School

Program: Economic Development Assistantships (EDAs) 2013-2014

Period: August 2014 - July 2018

  • Engineered Earth Masonry for Affordable Seismic Resistant Low-Rise Buildings

PI: Barbato, M.

Co-PI: None

Sponsor: NSF

Program: NEES RESEARCH

Period: September 2015 - August 2018