Experimental and Theoretical Investigation on Masonry after High Temperature Exposure

The results of experimental investigation on the mechanical properties of clay brick masonry after high temperature exposition are here presented. The adopted physical model of masonry means to represent both new and old load bearing walls, so to get useful and applicable results. Uniaxial and diagonal compressive tests were carried on masonry samples exposed to 300 and 600°C. Samples of the component materials were tested in compression as well, and the elastic moduli of bricks and mortar were also measured. The results allow to evaluate the levels of residual strength and stiffness of all tested materials after exposure to high temperatures. Finally, property-temperature laws of mechanical decay for masonry, brick and mortar after high temperature exposition are here proposed and discussed.