The failure of unreinforced masonry structures (e.g., a collapse) because of their
vulnerability to earthquake action poses an actual threat to human life. Researchers
have investigated many mortar-free interlocking techniques. But the mass of
interlocking blocks is a point of concern. The interlocking plastic-blocks are lighter in
weight, possibly causing a lesser lateral force during the strong ground motions.
However, the dynamic response of such structures is unknown. Therefore,
the objective of this research is to examine the dynamic behavior of the
scaled down model of the interlocking plastic-block wall having window in
comparison with a model of an unreinforced masonry wall with the same elevation
dimensions. Two dynamic tests, i.e., snapback and harmonic loading, are
conducted in the out-of-plane direction. From the snapback test, the fundamental
dynamic characteristics i.e., fundamental frequencies and damping ratios are
experimentally determined. For learnt frequencies from snapback tests, three
harmonic loadings are applied one by one using a locally developed unidirectional
shake table. Acceleration time and displacement time histories are used to
study the behavior of walls. Base shear displacement curves are used to
determine energy absorption. Empirical equations are established by taking into
consideration the input loading parameters, wall height, and geometry of
interlocking blocks. It is found that the interlocking plastic-block wall is more
resistant to unidirectional lateral loading when compared with a masonry
wall.
Keywords
interlocking plastic-block, accelerometer, harmonic
loading, wall having window
