Strength of Load Bearing Masonry Walls

A theory is presented, for the rational analysis of masonry walls under eccentric vertical compressive load, or under a combination of vertical compressive and transverse load. The theory is based on established concepts, which have been modified to account for the properties of masonry. Similar methods of rational analysis have been adopted for the design of steel columns and are in the process of being adopted for reinforced concrete columns. An investigation of the results of 192 tests of full-scale walls of various types of masonry construction established the feasilibity of applying this theory to closely predict the strength of these walls. The analysis accounts for variables not presently considered in the design of masonry structures. The correlation between test results and theory is illustrated by several typical examples.