Prospects of Using Natural Block Stone as a Supporting Building Structure

Abstract

Purpose. Research of reinforcement methods of natural block stone and possibilities of its application as a load-bearing building structure. Methods. The study used such general logical methods as generalization, analysis and synthesis, analogy, abstraction and modelling. Results. Disadvantages of traditional technology of mining of raw materials for concrete production and the factors that increase the final cost of concrete structures are considered. Advantages and disadvantages of natural block stone in comparison with reinforced concrete building structures on the example of foundation blocks are considered. In order to reduce the cost, improve performance and give the production more flexibility, it is proposed to make such blocks of natural stone blocks with low decorative value. The analysis of known methods of reinforcement of natural stone is made, and the scheme of reinforcement of the block is developed. In order to develop effective reinforcement of such blocks, it is proposed to place the longitudinal reinforcement in the holes drilled in the block before its removal from massif, and fill them with self-expanding cement. Known methods of strengthening the inclined sections of reinforced concrete beams without transverse reinforcement are considered. To strengthen the inclined sections of the natural stone block, it is proposed to use a similar system of external reinforcement of reinforced concrete beams with carbon fiber-based tapes, which are glued with epoxy resins. Scientific novelty. For the first time in the general case, it is proposed to use natural block stone, reinforced with internal and external reinforcement, as a load-bearing structural element of the prefabricated ferro-stone foundation. Practical significance. Preliminary calculation of the minimum allowable distance from the inner wall of the holes for reinforcement rods to the outer surface of the unit without taking into account the inhomogeneities and defects that may occur in the rock, and additional loads during operation of such a unit was made. The obtained result is determined by the pressure of the cement mortar, which expands itself. If this distance is reduced, the whole wall may be destroyed. The issues that need to be solved to substantiate the proposed method of manufacturing foundation blocks, which will use all the benefits of natural stone and reduce the cost of manufacturing foundation blocks, are formulated.