Computational framework for discontinuous modelling of masonry arch bridges

An investigation into using continuum/discontinuum based techniques to anal yse backfilled masonry arch bridges is presented. Three different computati onal modelling tools, discontinuous deformation analysis (DDA), discrete el ement based analysis using particle flow code and the non-linear finite ele ment analysis using DIANA have been utilised for this purpose and compariso n are made with an experimental model developed at Edinburgh University. Lo ad dispersal through the backfill in the DDA model is improved by using Vor onoi tessellation based techniques and the displacement control loading hav e been utilised in all cases to trace the structural response beyond the co llapse load and to identify the collapse mechanisms. The capability and lim itations of the methods are demonstrated and some sensitivity analyses are also presented for the semi-circular arch model. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.