Hrvoje Smoljanović

A combined finite-discrete element model for RC structures under dynamic loading

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to present a new numerical model based on a combined finite-discrete element method, capable of predicting the behaviour of reinforced concrete structures under dynamic load up to failure. Design/methodology/approach – An embedded model of reinforcing bars is implemented in combined finite-discrete element code. Cracking of the structure was enabled by a combined single and smeared crack model. The model for reinforcing bars was based on an approximation of the experimental curves for the bar strain in the crack. The developed numerical model includes interaction effects between reinforcement and concrete and cyclic behaviour of concrete and steel during dynamic loading. Findings – The findings provide a realistic description of cracking in the concrete structure, where all non-linear effects are realized in joint elements of the concrete and reinforcing bars. This leads to a robust and precise model for non-linear analysis of reinforced concrete structures under dyn...

Numerical analysis of masonry structures by finite-discrete element model

This paper presents numerical model based on the finite-discrete element method for the analysis and prediction of the collapse of masonry structures with mortar joints and dry stone masonry structures. The model consists of a numerical model in a finite element, contact interaction algorithm which simulates the interaction between stone blocks in dry joint and numerical model in an interface element which simulates the behaviour of the mortar joints and unit-mortar interface. The verification of the model was performed on examples by comparing it with the known numerical and experimental results from literature.

A model for thin shells in the combined finite-discrete element method

Purpose To present a new numerical model for geometric nonlinear analysis of thin shell structures based on a combined finite-discrete element method. Design/methodology/approach The model uses rotation-free three node triangular finite elements with exact formulation for large rotations, large displacements in conjunction with small strains. Findings The presented numerical results related to behaviour of arbitrary shaped thin shell structures under large rotations and large displacement are in a good agreement with reference solutions. Originality/value This paper presents new computationally efficient numerical model for geometric nonlinear analysis and prediction of the behaviour of thin shell structures based on combined finite-discrete element method. The model has been implemented into the open source FDEM package ‘Yfdem’, and has been tested on simple benchmark problems.

Stability analysis of dry stone lintels using combined finite-discrete element method

The use of the combined finite-discrete element method (FEM/DEM) in the analysis of seismic resistance of dry stone lintels is presented in this paper. Seven dry stone masonry walls with different types of stone lintels were exposed to linearly increasing horizontal base acceleration and to seismic excitation. Based on the analysis results, the seismic resistance and failure mechanisms were analysed for each type of lintel. Recommendations for the design of stone lintels, aimed at achieving the greatest possible seismic resistance, were also discussed and presented.