Constructability and Performance of Continuous Masonry Wall Panels

Abstract

Clay bricks and cement sand blocks are the most usual types used for wall panel construction. However, the shortage of raw materials and cost has led to development of many alternatives for conventional brick wall construction. This study presents the development of semi mechanized shutter for the continuous masonry construction, details of the mortar mixes that can be used and load bearing capacity of continuos masonry wall panels. Wall panel construction using this technique was pioneered by Dr. R.N.S. Kulasinghe in early 80s' as a low cost and rapid construction technique. However, the mould used has not been able to harness the full potential of this construction technique. Semi mechanized mould developed in this study has effectively eliminated all the drawbacks of original version and allowed rapid construction of full wall height. In this study both economical aspect and strength of these new continuous masonry units have been evaluated and compared against the conventional brick masonry and results of the original slip form wall panel. Results show that continuous masonry has significantly higher strength compareci to conventional brick masonry. Detail cost analysis indicates that these continuous masonry wall panels can be constructed with substantial cost savings when compared with conventional brick masonry.