Bond and Compressive Strength of Masonry for Locally Available Bricks

The bond between brick and mortar plays an important role in the ability of masonry to resist loads. The single and most important property of mortar is bond strength, and it is critical that this bond be complete, strong, and durable. The mechanism of bond between masonry units and mortars is known to be influenced by large number of factors. This paper presents an outcome of a study conducted on tensile and shear bond strength of masonry and compressive strength of masonry. It was also investigated to develop a possible relationship between shear and tensile bond strength. An experimental program was conducted to determine the impact of bond strength on compressive strength of masonry. Tensile bond strength was determi led by testing brick couplets and shear bond strength by testing triplets as recommended in relevant standards. Wall panels were tested to find out the compressive strength of masonry. The effect of different factors such as grading of sand, soaking time of bricks and type of bricks on the bond strength as well as the compressive strength of masonry was also found. The outcome of this research will have a higher benefit to the construction industry where masonry structures form a substantial portion.