A numerical unit cell model for predicting the failure stress state of vertically perforated clay block masonry under arbitrary in-plane loads

As vertically perforated clay block masonry advances into more demanding building categories, knowledge of the effective masonry strength under different loading states becomes crucial. However, experimentally identifying macroscopic failure surfaces for such masonry requires a massive effort. In this study, we propose a FEM-based simulation concept to predict failure stress states of masonry under arbitrary in-plane loading. The proposed concept is validated using seven experiments from the literature. Subsequently, subjecting the validated model to various load cases allows for deriving a failure surface comparable to the Rankine–Hill surface. Thus, by applying the presented concept, we can effectively generate macroscopic failure surfaces for any perforated clay block design. •Numerical model for the simulation of vertically perforated clay block masonry.•Model is validated for in-plane loading scenarios based on seven experiments.•Realistic failure mechanisms could be replicated and described.•Model delivers failure surface comparable to Rankine–Hill surface by Lourenço.•Proposed model can be used to generate failure surfaces for arbitrary block designs.