NONLINEAR FE MODELING OF IN-PLANE BEHAVIOR OF PLAIN MASONRY WALLS AND INVESTIGATING EFFECTS OF POST-TENSIONING AS A PARAMETRIC STUDY

In this study, a general analysis tool for in-plane behavior of plain masonry walls has been introduced, and the effects post tensioning on lateral response of masonry walls have been investigated. The analysis tool uses the general-purpose F.E. code of ANSYS and incorporates the effects of bed joints, head joints, brick units, cracking, crushing, and sliding. The study indicates that axial force improves lateral strength but undermines lateral ductility of plain masonry walls.