J.M. Casali1, C. V. Zatta2 and H. R. Roman3
- Doctor of Civil Engineering, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC, Brazil, jucasali@ig.com.br
- PhD student of Civil Engineering, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC, Brazil, cledison@edifficaz.com.br
- Professor of Civil Engineering, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC, Brazil, humberto@ecv.ufsc.br
ABSTRACT
Structural masonry is a construction system whose purpose is to increase productivity, quality and efficiency. One way to increase productivity would be to only use face shell bedding, which enables faster execution. This method would also be very advantageous in reducing the quantity of mortar that is used. However, the type of mortar bedding also affects the mechanical behaviour of structural masonry. In this context, the present study’s objective is to evaluate the structural performance of prisms made of clay blocks with a novel geometry and built with different types of mortar bedding. The effect of the type of capping used for the clay block prisms – full capping versus face shell capping – was also assessed. Mechanical behaviour was evaluated for two mortars with different mixture proportions and, consequently, different compressive strengths. Results show that mechanical behaviour was influenced by the type of mortar bedding: the highest compressive strength values were obtained with full mortar bedding. Capping type and mortar type were also found to have an influence, showing that it is important for structural engineers to gain knowledge of the effects described here.
KEYWORDS: clay block, mortar bedding, capping, structural masonry.
B2-2
