Flexural strength evaluation of reinforced interlocking block beams

摘要

Dynamic loading tests on dry-stack interlocking block masonry single storey houses revealed that the mode of failure was by the toppling over of the courses of masonry above the lintel level. The basis of the work described in this paper is to develop methods of strengthening the masonry to prevent collapses in the segment above the lintel level during dynamic loading. The interlocking blocks have unique characteristics in terms of dimensions and contour. The block system used in these tests was developed by Hydraform Limited and have been used in construction in many countries. Blocks were assembled to form beams under different reinforcement arrangements. Tests were carried out to establish a most suitable arrangement for strengthening the houses in the sections above the lintel level. The infill concrete and the reinforcement bars improve the resistance capacity of dry stack masonry. Test results revealed that the infill concrete confines the dry-stack masonry reducing significantly the toppling over of the courses of masonry above lintel level.