Final answer:
Joint reinforcement in CMU walls consists of horizontal and vertical steel bars/wire meshes embedded in mortar joints to increase strength and stability. They distribute structural loads, preventing cracks or collapse. Horizontal reinforcement like bond beams can prevent separation at weak points.
Step-by-step explanation:
Joint reinforcement in CMU (Concrete Masonry Unit) walls generally consists of horizontal and vertical steel bars or wire meshes. These reinforcement elements are embedded in the mortar joints between the stacked CMU blocks to increase the overall strength and stability of the wall system.
The purpose of joint reinforcement is to distribute the structural loads and stresses across the entire wall, preventing cracks, bulging, or collapse. They act as tension ties, resisting the forces acting on the wall due to lateral loads, such as wind or earthquakes.
For example, horizontal joint reinforcement, also known as bond beams, can be installed at specific intervals to create a continuous horizontal reinforcement. This helps prevent the walls from separating or dislocating at weak points, such as openings for doors or windows.