Mechanical characterization of adobe masonry walls

Abstract

Many of the existing adobe constructions in Aveiro district are in the imminence of ruin, due to pronounced structural damage. This generalized negligence results, on one hand, from the lack of sensibility for the importance of preservation of this cultural and historical heritage and, on the other hand, from the limited existing knowledge concerning the mechanical behaviour and structural pathologies of these structures. In this context, it is recognised the urgency for the development of research work in the structural analysis, rehabilitation and strengthening of this important legacy. To help filling the technical information gap concerning the structural behaviour of adobe constructions, a group of researchers from the University of Aveiro has been developing studies and tests regarding the mechanical characterization of the material components and of the adobe masonry structural elements. This article describes tests conducted on small wallets that were constructed at reduced scale (1:3) with materials representative of those found in existing constructions, and presents the principal obtained results, discussing them. These wallets have been submitted to compression tests, perpendicular and diagonal to the bed joints. The achieved results help on the structural behaviour characterization of existing adobe masonry structures, and can thus support future rehabilitation and strengthening interventions, and even support the design and execution of new edifications.