The development of a hollow concrete masonry system for use with near-surface mounted reinforcement

Abstract

The 21st century has brought with it myriad innovative construction techniques and structural systems; however reinforced masonry systems have gone virtually unchanged over the last decades. The innovative Surface-Reinforced Concrete Masonry Unit (SRCMU) system makes use of Near-Surface Mounted reinforcement to form a structurally efficient system. Preliminary analysis of this system shows the potential for improved moment resistance when compared to conventional masonry construction. There is also evidence for a potential decrease in embodied and operating energy for finished structures using the SRCMU system. Experimental work indicates similar axial compressive behaviour of the SRCMU when compared to conventional concrete masonry systems. Pull-out and flexural tests performed on reinforced SRCMU specimens indicate it is possible to achieve a good bond between the SRCMU system and the reinforcing bars; up to 60kN of pull out force was developed in 590mm of bonded length, and flexural specimens developed up to 20kNm/m of moment-resistance.