Lissel, ShelleyPopal, Rashid2013-04-302013-06-102013-04-302013http://hdl.handle.net/11023/657From a review of existing test methods devised to determine the shear strength of a mortar joint, it was concluded that among the existing methods, the triplet test is the simplest to perform and the Hofmann & Stöckl test provides the best results in terms of uniform stresses. The advantages of these two tests were combined in a new shear test method designed, constructed, and utilized in this research. In the new test method, simple equipment is used to subject a couplet to a time-dependent horizontal load as well as to a level of normal compression stress. The couplet is placed between two rubber sheets, two steel plates, and two roller rails to accommodate the unevenness of the surface of the bricks, to allow smooth movement of the rollers, and to minimize the friction between the couplet and the vertical support planes, respectively. The results of the experimental investigation show that the developed test method produces uniform shear stress as in the Hofmann & Stöckl test and is as simple to perform as the triplet test.engUniversity of Calgary graduate students retain copyright ownership and moral rights for their thesis. You may use this material in any way that is permitted by the Copyright Act or through licensing that has been assigned to the document. For uses that are not allowable under copyright legislation or licensing, you are required to seek permission.Engineering--CivilTest methodShear strengthMortar bed jointMasonrymaster thesis10.11575/PRISM/24872