ABSTRACT
Energy efficiency is an important aspect in today’s society. In Belgium, the first layer placed directly on the floor is commonly executed using masonry units with higher insulating properties, preventing the occurrence of thermal bridges between the slab and the rest of the wall. Moreover, a damp proof course (DPC) is often placed between the first two layers with two main functions: (i) to direct water outside the wall out of the cavity and (ii) to prevent moisture from rising into the building.Thermal conditions are improved with a thermal break layer. However, both interventions have an impact on the structural behavior. As of yet, hardly any research has been performed on the shear strength of a masonry wall where both layers are included.In this contribution, an experimental campaign is presented in which shear tests are performed on masonry triplets with varying combinations of bricks and with or without a DPC.
