Experimental investigation of negative temperature’s influence during block laying on mechanical properties of calcium silicate block masonry

Abstract

This research analyzed the use of hollow masonry blocks made from calcium silicate, which were bonded using thin-layer and general purpose mortars. In particular, this article examines how low and negative environmental temperatures affect the mechanical properties of masonry during the process of block laying. Experimental research focuses on two stages of hardening, the first being the mechanical properties of masonry immediately after the mortar thaws in the joints. The second stage in our research examined the mechanical properties of masonry when warming mortar continues to harden. Performed research have shown that block laying at low temperatures affects both the compressive strength and the modulus of elasticity of masonry. Depending on the type of mortar used, the aforementioned modulus decreases to 15%, which has a direct impact on the load-bearing capacity of vertically loaded masonry constructions. This study shows that thin-layer mortar used in the laying of calcium silicate hollow blocks exhibits greater vertical deformations at the initial loading stage.