Derivation of the in-plane elastic characteristics of masonry through homogenization theory (Q675343)

The homogenization theory for periodic media is implemented in a rigorous way, i.e. in one step and on the real geometry of masonry (finite thickness and actual bond pattern). Numerical applications are carried out, and the results are compared with the predictions based on existing simplified approaches. All the above-mentioned approximations turn out to slightly affect the in-plane elastic characteristics of masonry, but it is anticipated that, in the nonlinear range (plasticity or damage), the same approximations might lead to erroneous results, quantitatively as well as qualitatively (value of the ultimate load and mode of failure).