Tube-jack testing for irregular masonry walls: Regular masonry wall testing

Abstract

This paper presents the continued development of a novel non-destructive testing method termed tube-jack testing. The goal of the tube-jack system is to provide an enhanced and less destructive method than traditional flatjack testing for determination of mechanical characteristics and local stress states in irregular masonrywalls. Single tubejack testswere performed, using previously developed rubber tube-jacks, in regular masonry walls of granite and cementlimemortar. A traditional flat-jack test was also performed in the same masonry wall. Conclusions suggest that tube-jacks are successful in applying pressure to the masonry at low stress states.