Recent research published in the ‘Journal of Rehabilitation in Civil Engineering’ has shed light on the critical role mortar properties play in determining the compressive strength of masonry prisms. As masonry buildings continue to be a favored choice in construction around the globe due to their economical and structural advantages, understanding the nuances of material properties is vital for enhancing the safety and durability of these structures.
Lead author Raisul Shuvo, a lecturer at the Ahsanullah University of Science and Technology in Dhaka, Bangladesh, highlights the significance of their findings, stating, “Our study demonstrates that optimizing the cement-to-sand ratio can lead to substantial improvements in compressive strength, which is crucial for the long-term performance of masonry structures.” The experimental program involved 54 specimens, including cubes, cylinders, and masonry prisms, with a focus on varying the cement-to-sand ratio while keeping the water-to-cement ratio constant.
The results indicate that a cement-to-sand ratio of 1:3 yielded the highest compressive strengths—3555.5 psi for cubes, 3282.98 psi for cylinders, and a compressive force of 129.33 kN for prisms after 28 days of curing. This optimization reflects a significant increase in compressive strength, with improvements of approximately 68.19% for cubes and 76.48% for masonry prisms when adjusting the ratio from 1:5 to 1:3.
Such findings are not just academic; they have profound implications for the construction industry. By adopting the optimal mortar mix, builders can enhance the structural integrity of masonry, potentially reducing the risk of failure in buildings, which is paramount in earthquake-prone regions. Implementing these insights can lead to safer, more resilient structures, ultimately benefiting both builders and occupants alike.
As the construction sector grapples with the challenges of sustainability and safety, this research paves the way for more informed material choices. The correlation drawn between the experimental data and the Bangladesh National Building Code (BNBC) 2020 further underscores the practical applicability of these findings.
In a rapidly evolving construction landscape, studies like this not only contribute to academic discourse but also serve as a catalyst for innovation in building practices. As Shuvo aptly points out, “The construction industry must embrace research-driven approaches to ensure that we are building not just for today, but for the future.” This research represents a step forward in that direction, emphasizing the need for continuous improvement in material science within the realm of civil engineering.
