Development and Experimental Analysis of Ceramic Bricks Panels for Structural Masonry Construction Systems

Abstract

The purpose of this work is to develop a modular construction system for housing using structural masonry. As part of the investigation, ceramic brick panels were fabricated and had their structural behavior under compression and bending experimentally evaluated. The connections between the panels were made longitudinally and in the corners, using grouted metallic clips. The panels connected by clips were submitted to impact tests to assess the effectiveness of these joints when subjected to conditions of use in houses. Additionally, the research took into consideration the constructive process of prefabricated buildings, regarding the transportation and assembly of ceramic panels, by means of qualitative analysis. Based upon the results, it could be concluded that the behavior of structural ceramic panels and their connections were suitable for use in houses. The possibility of their use in industrialized prefabricates was also observed. The study indicates some aspects that must be evaluated and improved to confirm the viability of using these ceramic panels in the manufacture of structural masonry housing units, thus becoming an important mechanism for reducing the housing deficit in Brazil.