Computational Methods in Engineering

This paper presents a macro model to predict unreinforced masonry structures in plane behavior. The model is based on the concept of multilaminate theory. In the past, the method has been used to model behavior of soil, disregarding the cohesion and the tensile strength. Regarding its mathematical base, and the possibility of applying in other cases, this method is used to predict the ultimate failur load in URM structures in present study. This model is intrinsically capable of spotting induced anisotropy of brittle material such as concrete, rocks and masonry, develponig as a result of cracking. Here, the yield surface applied, consists an generalized mohr-coulomb yield surface, along with a cap model and a cut-off tensile. Comparing numerical results predicted to be obtained in non-linear analysis of masonry structures unreinforced against lateral load, with the results of ther experimental data shows capability of the model in failure analysis of URM structures.