Shear modulus and stiffness of brickwork masonry: An experimental perspective

Abstract

Masonry is a compos ite non-homogeneous structural material, whose mechanical properties depend on the properties of and the interaction between the composite components-brick and mortar, their volume ratio, the properties of their bond, and any cracking in the masonry. The mechanical properties of masonry depend on the orientation of the bed joints and the stress state of the joints, and so the values of the shear modulus, as well as the stiffness of masonry structural elements can depend on various factors. An extensive testing programme in several countries addresses the problem of measurement of the stiffness properties of masonry. These testing programs have provided sufficient data to permit a review of the influence of different testing techniques (mono and bi-axial tests), the variations caused by distinct loading conditions (monotonic and cyclic), the impact of the mortar type, as well as influence of the reinforcement. This review considers the impact of the measurement devices used for determining the shear modulus and stiffness of walls on the results. The results clearly indicate a need to reassess the values stated in almost all national codes for the shear modulus of the masonry, especially for masonry made with lime mortar, where strong anisotropic behaviour is in the stiffness properties.

A macro-modelling approach for the analysis of infilled frame structures considering the effects of openings and vertical loads

“…For example, Cavaleri et al (2012) carried out an experimental campaign on different types of infill materials measuring elastic and rigidity moduli. Also, Ismail, Petersen, Masia, and Ingham (2011) after conducting an experimental campaign found similar results, while similar experimental results were obtained by Bosiljkov, Totoev, and Nichols (2005).…”

Numerical analysis of the load-bearing capacity of brick masonry walls strengthened with textile reinforced mortar and subjected to eccentric compressive loading

“…For this reason, a relatively high value of the Poisson's coefficient (υ=0.35) is used in the current research if compared with the one proposed in Eurocode 6, which is 0.25. In this line, the use of υ=0.35 is completely supported by the experimental evidences in [29]. Nevertheless, a simple sensibility analysis was done to study the influence of this parameter and to assure that it was not crucial for the calculation of the load-bearing capacity.…”

“…The three first values were experimentally obtained and the Poisson's coefficient is based on the values found in the bibliography. For instance, Bosiljkov et al [29] proposed values of Poisson's ratio up to 0.4 when using mortar with low content of cement. Moreover, Bosiljkov et al [29] proposed a relationship between the modulus of elasticity and the Poisson's ratio.…”

“…For instance, Bosiljkov et al [29] proposed values of Poisson's ratio up to 0.4 when using mortar with low content of cement. Moreover, Bosiljkov et al [29] proposed a relationship between the modulus of elasticity and the Poisson's ratio. It was noticed that the highest Poisson's values corresponded with the lowest values of Young's modulus.…”

Seismic assessment of masonry buildings accounting for limited knowledge on materials by Bayesian updating

“…The upper limit of the interval (0.4) is the ratio between G and E corresponding to a Poisson's ratio equal to 0.25, a value commonly accepted for this type of material (e.g. Bosiljkov et al 2005). The lower limit (0.15) corresponds to a ratio E/G equal to 6, which is a ratio historically used and codified for masonry buildings (e.g.…”