Mechanical Characterization of Concrete Roof Tiles

Even when meeting specifications imposed in standards and building codes, concrete roof tiles are fragile and may be readily damaged during shipping, laying, and subsequent use. This paper describes a research project conducted to develop new mechanical tests for determining roof tile performance with a view to improving roof safety during and after tiling. Three flexural and two nibs test methods and four tile types were studied. One of the new tests designed improves on the standard methods by reducing variability among other factors and yields results consistent with the failure patterns observed in roofs. An efficient new method was developed for testing nibs. The highest ultimate load was reached when the nibs broke simultaneously. The impact on the findings of tile shape and size, as well as variations in the manufacturing processes, was suggested; and regression equations were formulated as a basis for the design and production of stronger tiles.