Analysis of reinforcement techniques for partition walls subjected to vertical deformations of concrete slabs

Abstract

Masonry partitions are non-structural elements that have a fragile behaviour and their interactionwith building structures can cause cracking in serviceability conditions, therefore propertechniques/provisions need to be evaluated to avoid cracking in these walls.In this paper a numerical evaluation of some construction/reinforcement techniques to improve themechanical behaviour of masonry partitions affected by the vertical deformation of concrete slabs wereevaluated. This evaluation was made in serviceability conditions, with and without creep effects, throughtwo different approaches: numerical simulation of a concrete structure interacting with unreinforcedmasonry partitions and numerical simulation of isolated masonry partitions with and without reinforcementtechniques.The most common solutions used in Portuguese buildings for structural systems, partition walls andreinforcement techniques were considered: Framed concrete structures, Lightweight clay masonry partitionsand reinforcement techniques for masonry walls (reinforcement of bed joints and mortar coatings). Theresults are presented and discussed and some recommendations are suggested.