The effect of height-to-thickness ratio on the compressive strength of concrete masonry
Abstract
In ultimate limit state design of masonry structures specified compressive strength (f' m ) is the most important material property. It is believed that the compressive strength of concrete masonry prism is influenced by the height-to-thickness ratio. Also, the effect of bond type on the strength of concrete masonry is not significant recommended by the Canadian standard. Moreover, it is believed that face shell bedding induces lateral tensile stress on the web compared with full bedding. This study was carried out to investigate the effect of height-to-thickness ratio, bond type as well as mortar joint type on concrete masonry compressive strength. An experimental study using 78 prisms was completed. It was observed that the compressive strength for both grouted and hollow prisms decreases with the increase of the height-to-thickness ratio from 2 to 5. The effect of bond type and mortar joint type on concrete masonry compressive strength is statistically insignificant.