A new structural system: Friction-resistant dry-masonry

A new structural type is proposed and tested: steel-reinforced brick based on distributed unbond prestress theory (SRB-DUP). This is a dry-masonry structure with a friction-resistant stress-transfer mechanism. The elements comprising the entire assembly are not bonded to each other, allowing deconstruction for their easy reuse or recycling. Laboratory tests are reported on the structural performance of walls, beams and columns. Horizontal loading tests of walls and bending tests of beams along their strong axes reveal that the energy-absorbing capacities of both are high. Bending tests on walls and columns along their weak axis showed that both have high elastic deformation capacity. The SRB-DUP structure is a newly proposed type of earthquake resilient construction, different from other structural systems such as earthquake resistant construction, vibration control construction, and construction of vibration isolation. After meeting strict Japanese structural standards, the construction of two experimental houses using SRB-DUP structures was authorized. A new type of brick, with a uniform height achieved by covering it with fly-ash slurry mortar, has also been developed.