ESTIMATION OF MATERIAL PROPERTIES OF MASONRY ASSEMBLAGES

Abstract

Masonry is a non-homogeneous structural element whose material properties depend on the interaction between the various components such as unit and mortar, their volume ratio, the properties of their bond, and any cracking in the masonry. Orientation of the bed joints plays an important role in the determination of the material properties of masonry. The report presented here focuses on investigations carried out to calculate various material properties of unreinforced masonry (URM). The URM panels and prisms of different geometry were tested as per ASTM standards. The investigations were carried out on two different types of URM (a) half scale burnt clay, brick masonry, and (b) half scale concrete block masonry. The compressive strength has been determined for the individual units, mortar and prisms by compression test using Universal Testing Machine. The stress strain curves and Modulus of Elasticity have been obtained and are reported herein. By testing the specimens (URM panels) under displacement controlled loading, stress strain curves of the specimens were plotted and Modulus of Rigidity was calculated accordingly. The crack and failure pattern of the various specimens during testing were observed and are presented herein.