Cracking and Failure Analysis of Masonry Arch Bridges

Abstract

Masonry arch bridges have been studied for many centuries. Numerous analytical methods have been developed, but mainly for the study of the elastic behavior and ultimate strength of arches. A new approach that embodies the nonlinear finite‐element procedure is introduced herein for the progressive failure analysis of masonry arch bridges. Failure criteria normally used for plain concrete are adopted to define the failure of masonry as a material under all biaxial stress states. This together with the assumed stress‐strain relationships of masonry enables the cracking and crushing of the arch under incremental loading conditions to be analyzed simultaneously. Results for stress distribution, cracking, and crushing at any load level may be traced graphically on a computer. Finally, the iterative procedure produces for the arch the failure load and the associated collapse mechanism. The two‐dimensional effects of spandrel fill on the arch behavior are also included in the analysis. The application of the proposed method is demonstrated using single‐span arches under concentrated loads and subjected to support movements.