Calibration of an equivalent shell model for a chain-link mesh

In recent years, there has been an up surging interest toward the investigation of the response of low energy rockfall barriers. The mechanical response of these structures largely depends on the interception structure. In this short note, the response of a chain-link mesh, typically used for this barrier type, is explored, by means of dynamic and static tests on panel portions at different scale. Based on the experimental data, an approach to develop an accurate and com-putationally effective FE model of the net is then described.