Architecture and Research whith Reinforced Masonry

Abstract

By using a combination of prefabricated bed joint reinforcement with traditional masonry, a new type of composite material can be created which can provide the opportunity for Architects to achieve new levels of technical and design excellence.
This composite is obtained by placing a truss type bed joint reinforcement (Murfor wire) embebed in the horizontal masonry bed joints. The tensile strength of the masonry can be improved by the reinforcement either trhroughout the structure or just in localised areas dependant upon the size, quantity and positioning of this reinforcement.
Professor Adell is the first Achitect in Spain to fully exploit the opportunities which this composite material can bring. The AutoSupporting Cavity Wall overcomes many of the problems normally associated with the connections between the two leaves of a cavity wall.
Professor Adell’s work in Madrid is seen as breaking new ground in the use of reinforced masonry. Two Local Authority housing schemes provide two very different examples of the spectacular results this concept can bring using fair faced brickwork.