Damge TC3D Accuracy

[Karishma]

Hello dear respected STKO team,

I want to conduct a compressive strength test on a masonry prism. For this test, I used a model based on experimental data from Kaushik, which I have attached. The stress-strain graphs from both STKO and the experimental data show significant discrepancies. Could you please review the model and provide feedback on its accuracy in representing the prism?"

This version clarifies the purpose of the test, the source of the model, and the specific request for feedback on its accuracy
Best Regards,
Karishma

[kesavapraba]

Please check peak compressive strengths of your brick and mortar. Both are significantly larger than the prism's peak comp strength. I would say the STKO strength prediction is nearer to the strengths of these two materials - this looks fine to me. Your model shows a strong mortar and weak brick scenario, for which the failure mode will be different than weak mortar-strong brick case. Generally, weak mortar is preferred over strong due to the failure mode consideration. Try to understand if this is acceptable in real scenario and also the mechanics therein.

[Karishma]

Dear kesavapraba,

Thank you for your attention. I exactly inserted the same compressive strength of brick and mortar as reported in the research from the test. It is a general scenario that masonry prism strength is less than unit and mortar strength. In more than 200 prism samples I gather from the literature the same scenario happened. especially the prism strength is smaller than the unit strength. I opt that STK calculates the compressive strength of the prism twice their actual one and want to know the reason for this.

I hope someone helps me to clarify this issue further.

Thank you

[STKO Team]

This happens because the overall masonry (apparent) compressive failure is actually a tensile failure in the transversal direction and spalling of bricks at the sides.
Try reducing the tensile strength of bricks