Experimental characterisation of masonry unit–mortar interface under uniaxial cyclic tension

Abstract

An experimental investigation of a non-linear mechanical phenomenon occurring in a masonry unit–mortar interface subjected to uniaxial monotonic and cyclic tensile tests is conducted in this study. Some crucial parameters, such as stiffness degradation, residual displacement, damage energy, and plasticity/friction energy were estimated based on cyclic tensile tests and were investigated to understand the mechanical behaviour of the unit–mortar interface. Several correlations were determined between the elastic stiffness, residual displacement, and damage variable with respect to displacement. In addition, the dissipated energy was determined from the secant stiffness, and a good correlation was observed between the energy calculated with and without considering the residual displacement. Ultrasonic measurements were also performed on these tests to monitor mechanical damage.