Journal Published Online: 01 March 1978
Volume 6, Issue 2

An Indirect Tensile Test for Masonry Units

CODEN: JTEVAB

Abstract

The failure of masonry in laboratory testing of walls and prisms and certain aspects of grouted construction is often the result of tensile splitting. These tensile stresses arise from differences in modulus of elasticity and Poisson's ratio between the masonry unit and mortar or grout. Since tensile splitting is so prevalent in masonry construction, a better means of evaluating the tensile strength of masonry units is needed. A splitting tensile test is proposed as a means of measuring tensile strength of masonry units. Splitting strength is compared to standard strength tests for 14 clay units and 14 concrete block units. Uniform failure modes and strengths support the adoption of a splitting test as a standard of masonry unit strength.

Author Information

Borchelt, JG
Masonry Institute of Houston-Galveston, Houston, Tex.
Brown, RH
Clemson University, Clemson, S.C.
Pages: 10
Price: $25.00
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Details
Stock #: JTE10932J
ISSN: 0090-3973
DOI: 10.1520/JTE10932J