Seismic Behaviour of Masonry Structures
Masonry structures are the most frequently used construction type worldwide. They are quite easy to build from local materials and, being cost-efficient, they show favourable characteristics with respect to building physics. However, with respect to structural properties, masonry structures primarily bear vertical loads which are transferred to the foundation by compression forces. In case of horizontal or dynamic loading like wind or earthquakes tension forces occur that lead to cracks and might even result in collapse of the masonry structure.
Researchers of the LBB investigate the seismic behaviour of masonry structures under different loading and bearing conditions. Thereby, the focus is set on the numerical simulation that is being validated by experimental results of international institutes. The software MINEA-R which was developed at the LBB enables practical engineers to efficiently carry out structural analyses and verifications of stability of masonry structures considering static and dynamic loadings.