Heterogeneous elastic solids: a mixed homogenization-rigidification technique

A homogenization technique for heterogeneous elastic solids made up by a matrix containing inclusions modelled as rigid in the limit, is proposed, It is shown that the approach can cause considerable simplifications with respect to the use of standard homogenization procedures. The case of a masonry panel set across on an opening is analysed by applying the proposed technique and some numerical results are given. They are compared first with those obtained by considering the panel as a heterogeneous body and, in turn, by using standard homogenization. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.