Influence of openings on two-way bending capacity of unreinforced masonry walls

Perforated unreinforced masonry (URM) walls in out-of-plane (OOP) two-way bending are commonly encountered natural hazard investigations. However, related research is rather limited. This study focuses on the influence of openings capacity URM walls. An experimental database about perforated OOP was created. A brief review results show that arrangement opening area can significantly affect (defined as peak pressure wall net area): when non-covered and non-loaded, higher than its solid counterpart; covered with timber or glass plates loaded rest wall, lower corresponding wall. These observations from experiments were confirmed by an analytical estimation using Yield Line Method (YLM). Next, to capacity, a numerical has been carried out employing 3D simplified brick-to-brick modelling approach. The calibration validation this approach precisely predict crack patterns. By applying validated models, for YLM evaluation confirmed. Further, parametric focusing mainly cases non-loaded conducted. geometric parameters openings, namely, size, shape position investigated different aspect ratios. Results increases size ratio (height width) increase, but it insensitive position. Eventually, based results, equations proposed account considered capacity. comparison Australian Standard (AS3700) indicates incorporate more such shape.