Experimental and numerical evaluation of the behavior of masonry with compressed earth blocks
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.35381/i.p.v8i14.4974Keywords:
Compressed earth blocks, masonry, mechanical testing, numerical modeling, sustainable construction, (UNESCO Thesaurus).Abstract
The objective was to evaluate the mechanical and structural behavior of masonry built with cement-stabilized compressed earth (BTC) blocks with local soil from the Saraguro canton, Ecuador. Soil characterization tests, water absorption tests, and compressive and flexural strength tests on individual units were conducted, along with axial compression tests on masonry prisms and diagonal compression tests on wall panels, in accordance with UNE, ASTM, and NEC standards. In addition, a computational model based on the finite element method was developed in ABAQUS to analyze the structural response of masonry walls with and without vertical reinforcement. The results show that the CEBs meet the compressive strength requirements for structural use, although limitations in flexural performance were identified. Numerical analysis demonstrated that the LEGO-type system and the incorporation of vertical reinforcement significantly improve stiffness, reduce displacements, and control stress concentrations, confirming the potential of CEBs as a sustainable construction alternative.
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