Limitation of cracking in AAC masonry under the window zone / Begrenzung von Rissbildung in Porenbetonmauerwerk im Brüstungsbereich

The article describes the results of tests on the impact of reinforcement on the appearance of cracks and on the manner of damage to masonry under the window zone. Masonry made of Autoclaved Aerated Concrete units with thin layer mortar was tested. Eight unreinforced test specimens (two series) and four series of test specimens (12 specimens) with reinforcement in the bed joints were subject to testing. Two types of reinforcement were used in the tests. It is demonstrated that the reinforcement has a significant impact on the level of cracking stress and propagation of cracks. It was found that when a pillar is correctly designed, cracks should not occur in the masonry under the window zone.