Masonry Strength and Behaviour

This course introduces you to the mechanics of masonry in compression and the theoretical framework for failure stress under compression. You will also learn about the Haller-Francis theory and some of its limitations. This outlines the theoretical framework for failure stress under compression and Hilsdorf's approach of 1969. This course explains the deformation properties of brickwork in compression.

This course discusses in detail the brick and bed material interaction, the effect of bed material on brick prism strength, Poisson's ratio, the standard prism test and the correction factors for prism compressive strength. You will also learn about the variability in masonry, unit-mortar bond, the flexural strength and flexural tensile strength of masonry and the different types of shear test specimens.

This course also explains the differences between the shear strength of masonry and joint shear strength. You will also learn about the importance of the diagonal tensile test and the shear strength of bed joints. You will be introduced to the derivation that accounts for the estimate of the vertical load-bearing capacity of a masonry wall, the effect of eccentricity and slenderness ratio as well as non-linear stress-strain relationship.