Keywords: mesoscale analysis, interface element, brick-mortar interaction, masonry compressive failure.

This paper presents an advanced zero-thickness interface element which can be used in mesoscale models for unreinforced masonry to describe brick-mortar interaction. In particular, an existing interface formulation has been enhanced by modifying local kinematics and coupling typical mode I separation with in-plane normal strains induced by Poisson's effects. This enhancement allows the differential behaviour of brick units and mortar joints to be properly captured, while circumventing the need for detailed representation of individual components. Application of the proposed mesoscale modelling enables triaxial stress states within bricks to be effectively predicted including significant tensile stresses which may lead to the formation of cracks in unreinforced masonry. The performance of the proposed interface element is assessed by the analysis of a set of prisms subjected to uniaxial compression, where brick-mortar interaction has been found to govern the overall behaviour of the composite system.

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