Influence of wall-to-floor connections and pounding on pre- and post-diction simulations of a masonry building aggregate tested on a shaking table

Abstract This paper presents numerical simulations within the frame of project SERA—AIMS (Seismic Testing Adjacent Interacting Masonry Structures). The study includes blind pre-diction and post-diction stages. former was developed before performing shaking table tests at laboratory facilities LNEC (Lisbon), while latter carried out once test results were known. For both, three-dimensional finite element models prepared following a macro-modelling approach. structure consisted half-scaled masonry aggregate composed by two units with different floor levels. Material properties used for model based on preliminary previously provided to participants. constitutive reproduced classical stress–strain envelope, whereas more refined adopted post-diction. After eigenvalue analysis, incremental nonlinear time history analysis performed under unique sequence given load protocol account damage accumulation. In post-diction, calibrated data recorded during dynamic repeated accelerogram sequence. interaction between simulated through interface elements. Moreover, timber floors accounted strategies: not modelling or considering wall-to-floor connections. Advantages disadvantages are then analysed, comparing experimental data. Numerical differ from outcomes regarding displacements pounding, although clear improvement is visible in model.