Masonry elements with damp-proof course membrane: Assessment of shear strength parameters

Load tests on 10 series of pre-compressed masonry triplets with a damp-proof course (DPC) membrane placed either in the middle of the mortar bed joint or between the masonry unit and bed joint mortar have been completed. The shear behaviour of the specimens was highly influenced by the applied pre-compression level and almost uninfluenced by the position of the DPC. For the prediction of the failure shear force a Mohr–Coulomb failure criterion can be applied. A considerable energy dissipation and large deformation capacity could be expected in masonry structures with DPC incorporated in the bed joints. Such behaviour would be desirable for enhanced seismic performance.