Multiple leaf- masonry -walls are one of the most important, immediate and characteristic features of Islamic architecture. In Cairo much of masonry monuments have been constructed along different periods on this unique style. Many years ago, where it has been built from two external stone block leaves and another one internal core leaf in a variety of materials and forms.
Damage analysis and assessment of multiple leaf- masonry walls
have to bear in mind the conservation philosophy, which is essentially leaving the structure as found, with minimal intervention whenever possible. The intervention should be sympathetic to the original character of the building and carrying out to maintain its structural stability.
A detailed investigation relies on the previous experience of engineering, restoration as well as understanding of the short comings of theoretical calculations and assumed loads versus actual
behavior and loading structural monitoring of critical elements to
check movements as well as crack growth is important in reaching a
final conclusion. Core samples and non- destructive load testing
results are also obtained and used to verify analysis and
observations.
Predicting the behaviour of multiple-leaf masonry walls is a
challenging issue, given the influence of a wide range of factors as
the mechanical properties of the two external leaves and internal
core materials, their dimensions and the way they are connected to
each other. In the present paper, experimental results in specimens
are carefully analyzed and reviewed. Simplified calculations for
practical assessment of existing walls are also addressed.
Two main case studies in respect of multiple leaf- masonry walls
are studied. The first one as an example for the bearing walls
in historical buildings is Wkallah Radwan Bik Al-Fakari. The
second one as an example for the retaining wall is Sultan El-Ghouri
palace wall remains.