Modeling of masonry of infilled frames, Part II: Cracking and damage

This paper proposes a model of the behavior of infill panels in framed structures. The model is based on the equivalent strut model, the concept of a plastic concentrator, and damage mechanics. First some fundamental concepts of damage mechanics are briefly presented. Then, an experimental Study of the behavior of masonry specimens under compression forces is described. These results are used for the development of the constitutive law for the equivalent strut bars. The model is analyzed, first in the case of monotonic loadings, and then for cyclic loadings. Finally, the model is validated by numerical simulation of a test carried out on infilled frames subjected to monotonic and cyclic loadings. (C) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.