Computational homogenization of elastic-viscoplastic refractory masonry with dry joints

•Computational nonlinear homogenization of refractory masonry is performed.•Effects of joints closure/reopening on the mechanical behavior are considered.•Computationally efficient homogenized elastic-viscoplastic model is developed.•Dry joints close and reopen due to cyclic loading and unloading.•The homogenized mechanical response of the masonry is orthotropic and nonlinear.