Shear Capacity of Hexagonal Masonry Walls with Hollow and Solid Blocks

Abstract

Masonry structures are used throughout the world for the construction of residential buildings. However, from a structural viewpoint, the masonry material is characterized by a very low tensile strength; thus, masonry construction often present diffuse fracture patterns. Moreover, masonry bearing and shear walls have been found to be vulnerable to earthquakes. In this study, to improve the seismic performance of masonry structures, hexagonal blocks were developed and six masonry walls used in hexagonal block were tested to failure under reversed cyclic lateral loading. This paper focuses on an experimental investigation of different types of wall used in hexagonal blocks, i.e. walls with different hexagonal blocks and with different reinforcing bar arrangements, subjected to applied cyclic loads. The cracking and damage patterns and hysteretic feature are evaluated. Results showed that damage to blocks in reduced and brittle failure is avoided by the comparatively hexagonal block walls than the existing masonry walls.