Numerical Study on the Peak Strength of Masonry Spandrels with Arches

This article presents a numerical study on the force-deformation behavior of masonry spandrels supported on arches which are analyzed using simplified micro models. The model is validated against results from quasi-static cyclic tests on masonry spandrels. A large range of spandrels with different arch geometries, material properties, and axial load ratios are studied. The numerical results are compared to peak strength values predicted with an existing mechanical model. Finally, estimates for the initial stiffness and the spandrel rotation associated with the onset of strength degradation are derived.