A finite element investigation into the in-plane load bearing behaviour of traditional timber-dry stone (Kath-Kuni) Masonry Walls

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Abstract

This paper presents a novel computational investigation into the in-plane response of traditional timber dry-stone masonry (Kath-Kuni) structure using non-linear three-dimensional finite element modelling. The investigation commenced with component-level numerical modelling of various connections within Kath-Kuni walls, validated using published experimental tests. This was followed by the development of a full-scale finite element model of a Kath-Kuni wall aiming to capture the heterogeneous behaviour of this unique timber-stone masonry structure as well as the complex interactions between its various structural components. A quasi‑static pushover analysis of the wall was carried out followed by a parametric study to quantify the influence of pre‑compression and interface friction coefficients on the in-plane response of these walls. The numerical models were able to capture the distribution of stress within the connections as well as at the contact interfaces, thereby providing comprehensive insights into the load-transfer mechanism and critical areas of stress concentration. The numerical analysis of full-scale wall highlighted the critical role of Kadil (dowel) connections, longitudinal timber beams and sandstones in bearing the in-plane loads. Moreover, the results showed that in‑plane strength increased nearly linearly with pre‑compression, increasing stone–stone friction from 0.60 to 0.70 increased the in-plane strength of the wall by 10–15 %, whereas the friction coefficients between timber–timber and timber–stone interfaces have marginal effect on the strength. These outcomes provide first-of-their-kind insights into the load-bearing mechanisms governing the in-plane response of Kath-Kuni walls.

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