A fracture-based model for the compressive strength of masonry

A mechanical model for explaining and quantifying the uniaxial compressive strength of masonry has been developed. The mechanical model is based on the development of tensile cracks from shear plane flaws in the units and the stress intensity factor resulting from the applied loading and tensile stresses induced by lateral straining of the mortar. Calibration of the model requires knowledge of only the compressive strength of the units, and the corresponding compressive strength of the masonry for a single mortar compressive strength. Theoretical predictions are compared and show close correlation with characteristic compressive strengths given in codes of practice.