Experimental investigation on interlocking concrete block for masonry wall of non-engineered earthquake resistant buildings

Most of the seismic damage of existing traditional buildings is due to the absence of practical beam and column structures as the main reinforcement of the building. While a masonry wall as a structural component is commonly negligible due to their relatively low strength in contributing to the frame structure. As a result, when the earthquake struck, the building collapsed, and the ruins of building elements hit the occupants seriously and caused many deaths. This paper presents the results of preliminary research on the experimental investigation of interlocking concrete block for the masonry wall applied to non-engineered earthquake-resistant buildings. The interlocking between concrete blocks is expected to contribute to the strength of the masonry wall in resisting the loads, either in-plane or out-of-plane directions. The novelty of this type of concrete block lies in the uniqueness of the interlocking shape, making it effective in withstanding the earthquake load. This research focuses on the testing of interlocking concrete block units in withstanding loads in the direction and perpendicular to the field and equipped with testing the compressive strength of the wall and diagonal shear strength. The results produce interlocking models of concrete block contribute to better strength than ordinary clay bricks for the masonry wall.