An innovative ductile mortar to improve the seismic response of masonry structures

The proposed work presents some selected results on a wide experimental campaign devoted to evaluate the mechanical response of unreinforced masonry (URM) systems realized with an innovative mortar, characterized by a ductile behavior. The improved response of the mortar induces higher resistance of masonry panels subjected to shear actions, thus improving their earthquake-resistant performances. The experimental campaign described in the paper is part of the research project called “Zero Environmental Risks in Our buildings” (ZERO), funded by the PORFESR 2014-2020 call of Emilia- Romagna region (North Italy). The final objective of the project is to introduce in the market a new class of construction and decorative materials, characterized by a high environmental-compatible profile (VOC-free) and improved chemical and mechanical properties. One of the objectives of ZERO has been the improvement of the ductile behavior of URM systems. To this aim, a wide experimental campaign has been carried out at the CIRI Building & Constructions at University of Bologna. The experimental tests have been devoted to characterize the material properties through specimens of the innovative mortar, as well as the coupled structural response of masonry systems realized by means of the innovative mortar and different clay blocks. In the present work, the preliminary results of the characterization of mortar specimens is described. In detail, three-point bending tests and centered compression tests have been performed to derive the flexural and compressive strength of the innovative mortar, as well as quantify the ductile response of the material. From the results, the innovative mortar is found to have improved resistance towards tensile action, and superior ductility values with respect to the specimens realized with traditional mortar commonly available in the market.