Numerical modelling of framed structures with masonry infills affected by tunnelling-induced deformation and damage

The paper describes a numerical approach aimed at investigating the response of framed structures with masonry infills to tunnel excavation in sand. The numerical model, analysed with the Finite Element method, includes the soil, the tunnel and the framed structure with infills. It proved its capability in reproducing the soil response at different values of the volume loss and the principal soil-structure interaction mechanisms, including sliding and development of a gap at the soil-foundation interface. The results are summarised in terms of angular distortion values for each bay as well as local tensile strains in the masonry infills. Finally, the efficiency of angular distortion models in predicting the maximum tensile strain of the infills is also evaluated.