Mechanical properties of three-leaf masonry walls constructed with natural stones and mud mortar

Although earth is the first masonry mortar material with continuous use throughout history, little experimental research on stone masonry with mud mortars has been carried out, particularly concerning its restoration. This paper presents the experimental investigation of the mechanical properties of three-leaf masonry constructed with natural stones and clay (mud) mortars under compression focusing on the production and properties of the mortars. Two different mortar mixes were designed for the external and internal leaves. Soil was collected and prepared (crushing of clods, sieving, drying and mixing with river sand). The water content was defined by flow table tests. Evaluation of the raw materials used for the production of the mortars was done by examining the particle size distribution by hydrometer and by sieves and by measuring the concentration of the total soluble salts and the organic material, while the hardened mortar evaluation was done by measuring the compressive strength, the flexural strength and the volumetric shrinkage. The compressive strength, flexural strength and splitting tensile strength of stones were also determined. Wallettes were subjected to monotonic compression after a six-month maturation period to determine the compressive strength, modulus of elasticity and deformation characteristics of the masonry. Adequate compressive strength, low modulus of elasticity and high transverse and longitudinal deformations were documented.