ABSTRACT
The paper describes challenges for engineering research and design relevant to Australian masonry façade construction. Research aimed at addressing such challenges, being conducted by the author and his colleagues at The University of Newcastle is discussed. The structural safety of new and older existing masonry cavity and veneer wall systems is considered. In particular, the influence on structural reliability, of the spatial and temporal variability of material properties, including aspects such as corrosion of steel wall ties, is addressed. The paper also presents examples of innovations in the design of new masonry façade systems. In recent years architects have lead a revival in the use of masonry in building façade systems in Australia. They have incorporated into their designs textured masonry, stack bonded masonry, and hit and miss (lattice) masonry; they have curved walls in plan and elevation and they have used these various forms in both loadbearing and non-loadbearing applications. This has resulted in challenges for structural engineering design, as many of these forms of masonry construction are not addressed in national design standards. The paper discusses examples and overviews research being conducted to help inform engineering solutions needed to bring architectural visions to life.
