Publication: Effect of non-uniform engineering properties of interlocking compressed earth brick (iceb) on the structural behavior of masonry wall
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Date
2020-09-01
Authors
Saari, Syahmi
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Abstract
The interlocking compressed earth brick (ICEB) is a new system that has reduced construction times and construction costs, making it an attractive replacement for conventional masonry structures. Although ICEB has already been used in construction, studies on the performance and properties of ICEB are still sparse, debatable and vary between the different types of ICEB. Therefore, this study investigates the properties of ICEB and the effects of ICEB walls with and without reinforcement under axial load with different aspect ratios, boundary conditions and loading arrangements. First, experimental investigations were conducted to determine the physical and mechanical properties of ICEB units and ICEB prisms. Then, 36 ICEB walls with different sizes and structures were tested under axial load with different boundary conditions and loading arrangements. The walls were analyzed using the finite element method in order to compare between the experimental and analytical results. From the results, it is evident that ICEB can be used in construction as its physical and mechanical properties exceed the minimum requirements of established standards. Apart from that, the shape, volume of void and manufacturing processes significantly affect the mechanical properties of ICEB. Even though of the properties of ICEB vary according to types, differences in the performance and behavior of the ICEB wall under axial load was insignificant. The stress-strain behavior of the ICEB wall under axial load was represented by a bilinear inelastic model and it was affected by the fissure closing stage at stress levels below 0.5 N/mm2. Moreover, the compressive strength of the wall increased as the aspect ratio increased. However, the boundary condition did not affect the ICEB wall’s compressive strength, lateral deflection and resistance to the buckling effect up to a slenderness ratio of 12. The failure patterns seen in the ICEB walls are vertical splitting and spalling of the brick. Inclusion of reinforcement in the ICEB wall slightly increased the compressive strength under uniform load, but the compressive strength increased significantly under a concentrated load. The experimental and analytical finite element method results of ICEB wall under axial load are mostly in good agreement.