Application of large-format highly porous ceramic stones in load-bearing walls of multi-story bui ldings

Introduction. In Russian conditions, the depth of support for floor slabs on walls made of large-format ceramic blocks is accepted to be less than in many European countries in order to reduce heat losses. However, with a small depth of support, the shear stresses in the masonry significantly increase, necessitating the construction of a more reliable support joint. Aim. To develop a design for the support joint of a floor slab on a wall made of large-format ceramic blocks that ensures its shear strength while minimizing heat loss. Materials and methods. Experimental verification was conducted on samples in the form of columns made of large-format blocks. Three rows of reinforced brick masonry were placed under a fragment of a reinforced concrete slab. A vertical load was applied to the fragment of the floor slab with eccentricity. Results. The layers of bricks acted as a distribution pad under the floor slab, leading to an increase in loadbearing capacity by at least 13–27 % while maintaining good thermal performance of the wall. Conclusions. The calculation of the outer wall’s pier showed the feasibility of constructing buildings with external load-bearing and self-supporting walls made of large-format energy-efficient blocks with a thickness of 38 cm for building heights up to five stories. However, considering the brittle nature of masonry failure, it is advisable to limit the height of such walls to two or three stories