Behaviour of dry mix EPs mortar panel under axial eccentric loading

Abstract

Abstract Lightweight mortar panel has been an alternative wall in the construction. However, the unsteady distributions of loads to the panel due to disorder alignment during construction affect the capability of the wall to reach the optimum load capacity. The inclusion of expanded polystyrene (EPs) that less in density and strength also was contributed the factor to achieve cohesiveness the properties of mortar panel. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the load capacity of the panel under axially eccentric loading that comply with the design of plain wall in BS8110-1. Due to this type of loading, the deformation was investigated through the load-strain, buckling profile and failure mode. This research involves laboratory experimental work for the different panel’s height. Four variables of EPs proportion were designed in a dry-mix mortar and constructed into the panel. From the result, the panel failed in compression stress where the wall deflected in single and double curvature at the vertical position. The high slender panels were failure at the joint of panels with the maximum deflection of 3.96 mm. Meanwhile, the low slender panel tended to crack and bend at the top. The ultimate eccentric load obtained for the panel at 45% EPs replacement was 587.76 kN.