Articles tagged with Masonry
Researchers at Newcastle University have developed a new environmentally-friendly mortar made from recycled plastic and silica aerogel, which improves insulation and reduces plastic waste. The new mortar mix reduced heat loss by up to 55% while maintaining the required strength for masonry construction.
Researchers create interlocking glass bricks that can withstand pressures similar to concrete blocks, aiming to reduce embodied carbon in construction. The 3D-printed bricks are designed to be reused and repurposed, promoting a circular construction method.
An Aston University researcher has overturned a fundamental principle in construction by showing that a hanging chain and an arch are incompatible mechanical systems. This finding highlights the limitations of traditional analogies used to design and assess curved structures.
A study examines the applicability of Cauchy and Cauchy-Froude laws to multi-storey masonry structures with flexible diaphragms. The findings suggest that these laws may be inadequate for heavy structures unless gravity is scaled.
A study at the University of Plymouth found that retrofitting an existing building with a green wall reduced heat loss by 31.4%. The study suggests that living walls can provide significant energy savings and help reduce carbon emissions in existing buildings.
Researchers at Princeton University and University of Bergamo analyzed how famous Renaissance domes were built without shoring or forms, quantitatively proving physics behind their structure. The study reveals forces that allow structures to be self-supporting, advancing modern construction techniques and potential environmental benefits.
Reinforced mortar coating improves the compressive strength of clay bricks, increasing their capacity to withstand external loads. The experimental results indicate an increase in both coated and non-coated prisms, with a significant improvement in the load-carrying capacity.
The University of Texas at Arlington has partnered with over 20 companies and an industry council to create two masonry schools addressing a shortage of skilled bricklayers. The eight-week accelerated discipline program will train individuals in brick and concrete masonry unit construction, leading to better job prospects.
Engineers at the University of Edinburgh have developed a forecasting method to predict damage caused by weather to historic and modern masonry buildings. This allows conservationists to estimate the impact of long-term climate change on stonework and brickwork, determining the most suitable preservation plan.
Researchers tested a one-story masonry structure with clay masonry veneer to evaluate its seismic safety. The test, which simulated earthquakes of up to 8.0 magnitude, showed the building performed well despite minor damage during initial shaking.
Experts discuss new biotechnology techniques to remove fungus, micro-organisms, and insects from artwork, documents, and masonry, promoting natural and non-toxic preservation methods. Curators in developing countries face challenges in assessing vulnerability, improving storage conditions, and controlling environmental fluctuations.
A 1,500-year-old underground tomb was discovered by Field Museum archaeologists beneath a palace-like residence in El Palmillo, Oaxaca. The tomb, remarkably well-preserved due to its subfloor location, contained three human remains with high-status signs, ceramic vessels, and red paint-covered bones.
A group of Puebloans from the Mesa Verde region is believed to have settled in three ruins on the west side of the Rio Grande River, exhibiting characteristics of the Mesa Verde culture. The site, Pinnacle Ruin, was inhabited by a large group who made a 250-mile journey south after Four Corners collapsed.
A Vanderbilt University-led excavation has uncovered a remarkably preserved 8th century Maya royal palace at Cancuén, Guatemala, featuring over 170 rooms and 11 courtyards. The site's unique design and fine limestone construction have allowed it to remain largely intact for over 1,000 years.