Climate change design adaptation for the next generation of Canada's masonry systems

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In 2018, the results of a Climate Change Adaptation Standards Inventory Analysis conducted by the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) indicated cavity-wall design as requiring urgent climate change adaptation provisions. Distress in cavity-walls is often attributed to excessive differential movements governed by the drying shrinkage of inner loadbearing concrete masonry members, projected to increase with climate change, producing cracks in outer clay brick veneer and compromising durability - test data are, however, still scarce, preventing climate-adapted and evidence-based design of modern cavity-wall systems from being developed, while codes set increasingly high standards for energy efficiency. This research, conducted in partnership with the Canada Masonry Design Centre (CMDC) and the Canadian Concrete Masonry Producers Association (CCMPA) - recognized leaders and references for masonry producers and designers in Canada - is being driven by the masonry industry to coincide with the development cycle of the 6 CSA masonry standards, and will focus on the design challenges and structural implications related to the use of wider cavities under climate change-induced extremes in temperature, wind, and moisture exposure. Small-scale mechanical/environmental tests and numerical modelling will be completed to assist in the modernization of current industry practices and code-based design values and practices for the realities of climate change. The proposed study will be the first to characterize experimentally, in a comprehensive and coherent manner, the performance of standard and climate change-adapted cavity-wall components under both environmental and structural loading conditions, vital for assessing the suitability of evidence-based climate-adapted design options. Expected outcomes will contribute to improve the resilience and sustainability of new masonry buildings, in line with Canada's commitments under e.g. the Paris Agreement, the United Nation's Agenda of Sustainable Development, the Sendai Framework for Risk Reduction, while safeguarding the future of masonry industry, a group of trades representing 8% of the Canadian economy through construction, renovation and deconstruction work.