ABSTRACT
This chapter outlines the results of full-scale wall tests applying core fill materials as a retrofit option to concrete block masonry. Results of a testing program to evaluate the in-plane strength of core fill strengthened masonry walls are presented. Tests have been performed on thirty-two 1.8 × 1.8 m walls constructed from standard 20 cm concrete block units. In comparing the various core fill materials and control walls, the strength and hysteretic behaviour of the walls are of interest. High density polyurethane core-filled walls failed in flexural compression under the low axial load. Unreinforced walls provide a good reference point from which to evaluate the performance of each core fill material. Under high axial load, the steel fibre reinforced grout reduces the strength of the walls 19% when applied to only 3 cores, but it was effective for improving wall strength when applied in more cores.
