Limit analysis of masonry structures

The objective of our work is to present a very simple numerical method suitable for determining the load collapse multiplier for masonry structures, by a linear formulation founded on the classical limit analysis theorems. Its main mechanical features are: rigid blocks; provision for blocks to slide with dilatancy; inability to carry tension and limited or unlimited compressive strength for the contact interfaces. The collapse load here is evaluated by the static limit theorem making use of Excel’s solver. Then, the evaluation of the collapse mechanism is pursued with the respect of kinematics compatibility conditions. We have obtained some computational results concerning the limit analysis of masonry panels, arches and domes, and they are appeared to be in good agreement with those achieved by other more sophisticated formulations.