ISSN: 1546-962X
Published Online: 23 February 2007
Page Count: 12

Evaluation of ASTM Methods to Determine Splitting Tensile Strength in Concrete, Masonry, and Autoclaved Aerated Concrete

Parker, Cody K.
Graduate Student,Civil and Architectural Engineering, University of Wyoming,

Tanner, Jennifer E.
Assistant Professor,Civil and Architectural Engineering, University of Wyoming,

Varela, Jorge L.
Assistant Professor,Civil Engineering, Autonomous University of Yucatán,Yucatán,

(Received 22 December 2005; accepted 20 November 2006)

Abstract

Tensile strength of concrete or masonry is a fundamental material characteristic used to predict crack formation. ASTM C 496 and C 1006 are specifically designed to determine the splitting tensile strength of concrete cylinders and masonry units, respectively. Finite element studies for the above tests were completed with the maximum tensile strength compared to the theoretical value in the corresponding ASTM equations. The objectives of this paper are as follows: (1) evaluate current ASTM test methods to determine splitting tensile strength using finite element analysis; (2) evaluate the splitting tensile strength of masonry assemblages through modifying an existing ASTM test; (3) evaluate the application of ASTM test methods to determine the splitting tensile strength of autoclaved aerated concrete; and (4) evaluate a proposed ASTM test to evaluate the splitting tensile strength of thin-bed mortar used in AAC construction. A case study of the splitting tensile strength of autoclaved aerated concrete is used to propose a single test method for this new material.

Keywords:
splitting tensile strength, diagonal tension, autoclaved aerated concrete, AAC, masonry, masonry units

Paper ID: JAI100446
DOI: 10.1520/JAI100446
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