The features of a nonlinear finite element approach suitable for the progressive failure analysis of masonry arch bridges are summarised. A pilot study indicates that, amongst the various material properties investigated, only the masonry tensile strength σt and the (post-cracking) strain softening parameter N have a significant influence on the failure behaviour of the arch bridge. Based on the collapse-load results of five full-size bridges tested in Britain, a comparative study is carried out by varying the values of σt and N. This calibration process leads to some practical guidelines for the satisfactory use of the proposed finite element approach in assessing the strength of both stone and brick masonry arch bridges.

  • INTRODUCTION

  • FEATURES OF PROPOSED ANALYTICAL APPROACH

  • PILOT STUDY

  • CALIBRATION

  • CONCLUSIONS

  • REFERENCES

  • ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

  • NOTATION

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