Title: Effect of type of masonry units on the mechanical properties of masonry panel walls

Authors: Ali Abdelkhalek; Mohammed A. Sakr; Ayman A. Seleemah; Tarek M. Khalifa

Addresses: Department of Structural Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt ' Department of Structural Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt ' Department of Structural Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt ' Department of Structural Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt

Abstract: Recently, cellular lightweight concrete (CLC) masonry units have been emerging as a substitute for burnt red clay (RCL) units that are commonly used in construction. In this study, an experimental program was conducted according to ASTM and British standards to compare the essential in-plane mechanical properties of CLC and RCL masonry units and masonry panels. These mechanical properties represent the initial inputs for numerical modelling used in analysing the behaviour of different elements (i.e., constructed from CLC units). This study showed that RCL masonry units and masonry panel walls are stiffer than CLC units, but they approximately have the same lateral load resistance. While the CLC masonry units are more ductile than RCL ones and have higher energy-absorbing capacity. Accordingly, they could be a solution to enhance the flexibility and ductility of buildings. Moreover, it is a lightweight brick.

Keywords: cellular lightweight concrete; mechanical properties; red clay masonry units; masonry structures; compressive strength.

DOI: 10.1504/IJMRI.2023.131836

International Journal of Masonry Research and Innovation, 2023 Vol.8 No.4/5, pp.479 - 508

Received: 19 Jul 2021
Accepted: 09 Feb 2022
Published online: 04 Jul 2023 *

Full-text access for editors Full-text access for subscribers Purchase this article Comment on this article