Author
CHE SOBRY ABDULLAH, MOHAMAD SALLEH YASSIN and ROSLI ANANG
Universiti Teknologi Malaysia

Abstract
This paper presents the results of tests carried out on interlocking mortarless blockwork specimens to determine the required design data for the design of a proposed 5-storey block of flats. Compression tests were carried out on the interlocking block units, grouted and ungrouted 3-stacked prisms, 5-stacked prisms, grouted and ungrouted 14-course walls. Bending tests for the determination of vertical and horizontal fkxural strengths were carried out on 14-course walls and 5-course wallettes, respectively. Direct shear strength tests were carried out on 5-course specimens. Test results revealed that the interlocking blockwork system possesses the required fkxural and shear strengths for mortared masonry provided that some precompression loads are applied. Even though the compressive strength of the storey height masonry is low in comparison with the unit strength, the design of a 5-storey building is found to be structurally possible. For a more economical construction some improvements in the design and production of the unit are proposed.