A simple model for performing nonlinear static and dynamic analyses of unreinforced and FRP-strengthened masonry arches

• A FE beam model for analysing unreinforced and fiber-reinforced masonry arches is presented.
• Masonry is an inelastic material with no resistance to tension and bounded compressive strength.
• Masonry deformability is limited and an irreversible damage process is accounted for.
• A procedure is provided for capturing FRP debonding.
• Dynamic analyses are performed on a case study to evaluate the effects of FRP-retrofitting in improving seismic performances.

A numerical model for analysing unreinforced and fiber-reinforced masonry arches is presented. It is based on a constitutive equation formulated for one-dimensional masonry elements, assumed to be made of a nonlinear material with no resistance to tension and limited compressive strength. A softening behaviour under compression is accounted for, and a procedure is provided for irreversible damage occurring to the masonry. The reinforcement, which is instead assumed to have no resistance to compression, is applied on the inner and/or outer side of the arch. In order to capture any possible FRP debonding, the values of the shear and normal stresses at the FRP-masonry interface are evaluated. The model, implemented in the non-commercial computer code MADY, allows for short computational times in studying reinforced masonry arches with any geometry, restraints and loading conditions. Comparisons with some experimental results are carried out to verify the effectiveness and accuracy of the model's predictions under static loads. Some dynamic analysis are also performed for a case study, and preliminary results are reported on the effectiveness of some FRP strengthening arrangements against earthquake actions.