Feasibility Assessment of Implementing Semi-Interlocking Masonry as Infill Panels in Framed Building Construction

• Published in: Applied sciences Vol. 14; no. 15; p. 6729
• Main Authors: Hossain, Md Akhtar, Totoev, Yuri Z., Masia, Mark J.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Basel MDPI AG 01.08.2024
• Subjects: Analysis; Building materials; Composite materials; Ductility; Earthquakes; Energy dissipation; Friction; infill panel; Masonry; mortarless masonry; Seismic engineering; Semi-Interlocking Masonry (SIM); Australia
• ISSN: 2076-3417; 2076-3417
• DOI: 10.3390/app14156729

Semi-Interlocking Masonry (SIM) represents an innovative building system developed at the Centre for Infrastructure Performance and Reliability at the University of Newcastle, Australia. This system employs a unique approach to interlocking mortar-less engineered masonry panels constructed from SIM units. These units are designed to offer substantial energy dissipation capacity, primarily attributed to the friction occurring on the sliding bed joints between the units within the panel during seismic events. The primary aim of this study is to evaluate the viability of incorporating semi-interlocking masonry as infill panels in the construction of multi-story buildings across diverse geographical locations with varying seismic conditions in Australia. To assess the feasibility of SIM panels in different conditions (according to Australian Standard AS1170) in Australia, a comprehensive analysis using Strand7 R3.1.4 is conducted on a three-story structure incorporating traditional masonry infill panels and SIM panels. Displacement and base shear capacities are compared in response to seismic events across various scenarios in different locations within Australia. The insights gained from this comparative analysis contribute valuable information regarding the viability of implementing SIM as a contemporary construction material.