NDT evaluation of ancient masonry properties by means of splitting tests on cores with diametric mortar layer

Title: NDT evaluation of ancient masonry properties by means of splitting tests on cores with diametric mortar layer
Author(s): A. Benedetti, E. Mangoni
Paper category : conference
Book title: RILEM Symposium on On Site Assessment of Concrete, Masonry and Timber Structures - SACoMaTiS 2008
Editor(s): L. Binda, M. di Prisco, R. Felicetti
Print-ISBN: 978-2-35158-061-5
e-ISBN: 978-2-35158-075-2
Publisher: RILEM Publications SARL
Publication year: 2008
Pages: 431 - 440
Total Pages: 10
Nb references: 8
Language: English

Abstract: The in situ evaluation of the masonry mechanical properties is a very complicated task.
Since in general extracting a significant masonry specimen is not possible at all, alternative
methods look for the solution by combining the properties of mortar and bricks. The
evaluation of the existing mortar is however a not very simple issue.
A viable alternative is based on the use of brick cores including a central mortar layer lying
on a symmetry plane. In fact these specimens can be extracted very easily by cutting cores
spanning two bricks at least. The obtained core is then subjected to a splitting test with a set
up providing a 45° inclination of the mortar layer with respect to the loading plane.
This type of test is similar to a diagonal wallet test and induces a mixed compression –
shear stress state in the central mortar layer. By using a Mohr – Coulomb failure criterion the
test result can be interpreted in order to obtain all the mechanical properties of the masonry.
In particular, by assuming a friction angle based on the compression to tension strength
ratio of the mortar, the cohesion can be evaluated, and by using appropriate formulas, all the
other constitutive parameters in turn.
In the paper a consistent set of experimental tests is examined which gives experimental
evidence that the results of the rotated layer splitting tests are in good agreement with other
analytical and experimental procedures.

Online publication: 2009-05-26
Publication type : full_text
Public price (Euros): 0.00