Numerical Analysis of the Influence of Geometry of Ceramic Units (Blocks) on Structural Walls

This paper presents finite element results of ceramic masonry prisms and walls under concentric compression. Four different hole geometries of ceramic units were studied (called Types A, B, C and D). The A-type unit had two rectangular hollows, B-type and C-type units have two rounded hollows and different net areas, and the D-type unit had two rectangular hollows and a double central web. This study analyzed units, prisms and structural walls joined by bedding mortar. The objective was to verify the stress distribution in units and mortars. The results showed that the distribution of compressive stress along the length and width of those units was uniform, but lateral tensile stress along the length was distinct for different geometries. In addition, this study observed that hollow shapes have an important influence in stress distribution. The D-type unit was the one that showed more uniform tension distribution, without peaks of stress concentration. This indicates that a D-type unit is the most efficient unit for use in masonry structures.