Project Title:
Investigation on in-plane behaviour of masonry walls made of mortarless interlocking concrete blocks.
Supervisory Team:
Principal Supervisor: Dr. Tatheer Zahra
Associate Supervisors: Dr. Hossein Derakhshan
External Supervisor: Dr. Julian Thamboo (South Eastern University, Oluvil, Sri Lanka)
Project description:
The use of mortarless interlocking concrete blocks in masonry construction is emerging as a viable technology for creating cost-effective and easily deployable buildings, especially in seismically prone areas. This technique utilises precision-engineered blocks that are dry-stacked, unlike traditional masonry methods that use mortar for bonding. This research aims to investigate the in-plane shear behaviour and compressive behaviour of mortarless masonry walls. Through experimental testing under various load conditions, the study will explore the failure mechanisms and essential design parameters of these walls. The focus will be on developing design standards that automate and optimise the structural design of mortarless masonry structures. This approach will ensure accurate reinforcement detailing, efficient material utilisation, and compliance with Australian Standards. Ultimately, this project seeks to establish a framework for designing and applying mortarless masonry systems, enhancing structural robustness, and providing a sustainable, cost-effective alternative to traditional construction methods.
Short Biography:
Sathurshan is a civil and structural engineer specialising in earthquake engineering design and analysis. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Engineering Honours Degree from the South Eastern University of Sri Lanka in 2019, followed by a Master of Science in Engineering Degree in 2023 from the University of Moratuwa, where he focused on the seismic vulnerability assessment of school buildings in Sri Lanka. Prior to pursuing his PhD, Sathurshan served as a Lecturer at Sri Lanka Technological Campus and gained valuable industry experience as a civil and structural design engineer. In 2024, he joined Queensland University of Technology to pursue a PhD, concentrating on the in-plane characteristics of mortarless masonry walls. His research integrates both analytical and experimental methods, with a strong focus on applications in building design, thereby contributing to the field of disaster risk resilience.