Introduction to the Combined Finite-Discrete Element Method

This chapter presents a general overview of the combined Finite-Discrete Element Method (FEM/DEM) which is considered as a state-of-the-art technique for the mechanical analysis of masonry structures. In a FEM/DEM simulation each discrete element representing a stone block is discretized into finite elements in order to describe the deformability of the blocks. This chapter deals with the main steps of the FEM/DEM including contact detection, contact interaction, fracture and fragmentation algorithms, calculation of deformations and the time integration of the equation of motion. The FEM/DEM is advantageously used to simulate transition from continua to discontinua processes which may lead to the collapse of the structure. Some examples for practical applications found in the literature are mentioned.