Influence of the backfill parameters in distinct element modelling of a backfill masonry arch bridge through the PFC2D software

Abstract

This paper presents an investigation on how to model a backfill masonry arch bridge using the discrete element method (DEM). The PFC2D software is used for this purpose. A certain backfill masonry arch bridge is modelled, with different types of fill, mortar and voussoir materials. A biaxial test has been programmed using ‘FISH’ code to obtain the micro-parameters used in the model so that they match the macro-parameters obtained from a real biaxial test. The arch is loaded until its collapse in three different load cases. Further discussion on the influence of the backfill parameters is presented as well as a sensitivity analysis for the arch bridge.