CONTROL OF CRACKING IN UNREINFORCED MASONRY WALLS ON SUSPENDED SLABS

摘要

This paper investigates the cracking of unreinforced masonry walls on suspended slabs. It begins with a review of provisions of some codes of practice relating to crack control in walls. The paper then discusses the structural mechanics leading to cracking. The problem is shown to arise from interaction between slab and wall, in which creep and strength properties are of influence. Results of numerical studies are used to quantify the structural effects. These studies relate to a resort building in which several hundred walls developed unacceptable cracking. The studies confirm that codified deflection control provisions for supporting slabs tend to mislead the designer. Practical measures for crack control in walls are discussed in light of the findings.