Author

S. GLOWIENKA (1), C.-A. GRAUBNER (2) and M.A. MAES (3)

(1) Hochtief Consult, IKS Energy, Structural Engineer, Frankfurt, Germany

(2) University of Technology, Darmstadt, Department of Concrete and Masonry Structures, Darmstadt, Germany

(3) University of Calgary, Department of Civil Engineering, Calgary, Canada

Abstract

Within the scope of the harmonisation of the European design codes the partial safety concept has been recommended for masonry structures. This requires the values of the partial safety factors to be discussed. Whereas for steel and concrete structures many studies have been conducted, this is not the case for masonry structures. In this paper, the reliability of unreinforced masonry walls made of large sized units will be analysed. It will be shown that the eccentricity of the load plays a decisive role for the reliability of unreinforced masonry structures. Based on the reliability analysis, optimized safety factors for the design of large sized masonry are suggested in order to meet the demands of reliability of DIN EN 1990 [1]. The focus in this paper is on axial loading, since the bearing capacity of masonry under compression is the decisive factor for the design in most practical cases.