Assessment of Brick Masonry Arches with Imperfection under Linear Load

Abstract

This study investigates the influence of imperfections on the structural behavior of Persian brick masonry arches subjected to linear loading through finite-element analysis using ANSYS (version 18) software. Nonlinear material behavior is considered in the analysis. The study examines how various parameters such as the shape and location of imperfections, the position of the applied load, arch geometry, span, and thickness variation influence the load-bearing capacity of the arches. Key findings indicate that imperfections can reduce the arch’s load-bearing capacity by up to 40%, with the most significant effects observed when the imperfection length-to-arch thickness ratio is <0.5 and the imperfection width-to-arch thickness ratio is <0.333. Optimal performance is observed when the imperfection length-to-arch thickness ratio exceeds 2 and the imperfection width-to-arch thickness ratio exceeds 0.667. Additionally, the imperfection orientation angle and position relative to the applied load are critical factors—imperfections at angles between 60° and 90° and load application angles between 22.5° and 45° result in the highest load-bearing capacities. The study concludes by recommending optimal imperfection configurations for structural engineers involved in the restoration and conservation of historical masonry arches.