SYMPOSIA PAPER Published: 01 January 1985
STP34553S

Direct Modeling of Concrete Block Masonry Under Axial Compression

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A better understanding of the complex behavior of masonry structures is necessary to embrace the more appropriate concept of ultimate strength design. Due to the prohibitive cost of full scale testing of masonry systems, a more economical method utilizing direct modeling techniques is proposed. It is the objective of this study to evaluate the use of direct modeling of ungrouted and grouted concrete block masonry under axial compression. A total of 49 quarter-scale block prisms were tested under axial compression. Correlations between model results and available prototype tests are performed. The study includes the effects of mortar strength, grout strength, height-to-thickness ratio, number of courses, and bond type on prism compressive strength. Excellent correlations were obtained for mode of failure and moduli of elasticity. It is concluded that direct modeling is feasible and is capable of predicting the behavior of masonry. Deviations from prototype strength results were observed which are attributed to size effect of aggregate and imperfections in geometry of the model blocks.

Author Information

Hamid, AA
Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA
Abboud, BE
Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA
Harris, HG
Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA
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Details
Developed by Committee: C12
Pages: 151–166
DOI: 10.1520/STP34553S
ISBN-EB: 978-0-8031-4936-6
ISBN-13: 978-0-8031-0402-0