Title: Time-dependent mechanical behavior of lime-mortar masonry

Author(s): Els Verstrynge, Luc Schueemans, Dionys Gemert

Publication: RILEM

Volume: 44

Issue: 1

Appears on pages(s): 29-42

Keywords: Masonry, Time-depenent behavior, Experimental testing, Creep modeling

DOI:

Date: 1/1/2011

Abstract:
An extensive experimental program has been set up to characterize the time-dependent deformation behavior of masonry, subjected to the creep failure mode. Different types of short-term creep tests were performed on small masonry specimens, which were constructed with air-hardening lime mortar. To assess the influence of the carbonation process on creep behavior, several specimens were subjected to accelerated carbonation. The time-dependent deformations are modeled using a viscoelastic, rheological model which includes damage effects. The applicability of the model is validated by comparing theoretical and experimental results and extending the time frame to long-term predictions. Good agreement was found between experimental and simulated time-dependent deformations. The accuracy of the proposed model is estimated by including the scatter on the most important material parameters in the analysis.