Test of Model Masonry Single Pier Under Dynamic Shaking and Quasistatic Cyclic Loading

In order to improve seismic design of masonry structures, research is needed in the area of masonry response to seismic loading. One of the purposes of this program is to investigate the difference of the structural response of masonry single pier when in-plane shear force is applied dynamically and slowly. In addition, modeling techniques for brick masonry were studied. The experimental results are reported for the structural behavior of two brick masonry piers under dynamic shaking and slowly applied cyclic loading. Each specimen was an unreinforced model pier having a height-to-width ratio of I with fixed-end conditions. The model was constructed of one fourth scale brick and mortar composed of fine sand, lime, and cement. Compressive tests of model mortar cubes, prisms, and one square panel were done to understand the modeling techniques of brick masonry. It was found that the piers under dynamic shaking are characterized by localized failure and abrupt stiffness degradation. However, the peak strength was lower under dynamic shaking. This tentative, preliminary conclusion should be verified with further tests.