Abstract:
Following two doctoral studies that have investigated the in-plane seismic response of posttensioned concrete masonry, a consortium of product suppliers have collaborated with the University of Auckland and the not-for-profit organisation Habitat for Humanity to construct New Zealand’s first post-tensioned concrete masonry house. A feature of this design is that all incorporated products are readily available in the market, with no proprietary products having been specifically developed for prestressed masonry. Consequently, it is hoped that this house will be a showcase for exposure of the technology in New Zealand. This paper discusses the post-tensioning details and comments on aspects of the design and construction.