A simple model for shear cracking and failure in composite masonry

ABSTRACT A two-dimensional finite element model developed earlier by the authors to compute stresses and strains in composite masonry walls subjected to inplane external loads under linear elastic conditions is developed further in this paper to incorporate the cracking and failure of the collar joint. A simple failure criterion is proposed which mobilizes resisting friction forces due to yielding of the horizontal reinforcement. It is shown with the help of an example that the growth of the interface crack can be arrested once enough resisting forces have been mobilized. The proposed model could be utilized to estimate strengths of composite masonry walls.