Fracture mechanics of masonry

Abstract

A comprehensive series of masonry fracture tests has been conducted, including three point bending tests on brick, mixed-mode fracture testing of brick, mixed-mode fracture testing of masonry and mixed-mode fracture testing of the mortar/unit interface. Computer methods were used to help analyze the fracture processes in masonry and the parameters which govern those processes. The research has focused on investigating crack propagation in masonry under a variety of loading conditions, both experimentally and analytically. Fracture parameters, such as fracture toughness and energy release rate, were obtained in order to provide data for future finite element modeling, which could then in tum produce a framework for the application of fracture mechanics to masonry. The research findings are summarized and some concluding remarks provided. Issues and recommendations for future research are pointed out.