Experimental and Computational Analysis of Brick Masonry Wall Panels with Integrated Reinforced Concrete Slabs

Abstract

Masonry wall systems are widely used in low- and mid-rise buildings because of their simplicity and cost efficiency. In many structures, brick masonry walls interact with reinforced concrete slabs, creating a composite structural behavior that significantly influences the overall load transfer mechanism. However, the structural response of masonry wall panels integrated with cast-in-situ reinforced concrete slabs under combined axial and lateral loading remains insufficiently documented. This study presents an experimental and computational investigation into the behavior of brick masonry wall panels connected to reinforced concrete slabs. Laboratory tests were performed on scaled wall–slab assemblies subjected to vertical compression and lateral loading to evaluate strength, deformation characteristics, and failure patterns. In addition, nonlinear finite element models were developed to simulate the experimental specimens and examine stress distribution within the composite system. The computational results showed good agreement with the experimental observations in terms of load–displacement response and crack propagation. The presence of the reinforced concrete slab improved the load carrying capacity and enhanced the stiffness of the masonry wall panels. The study provides insights into wall–slab interaction mechanisms and contributes to the development of more reliable design approaches for masonry structures.