Mechanical Properties of Plasterboards: Experimental Tests and Statistical Analysis

Plasterboard components are widely used in current buildings worldwide. Despite their extensive use, the lack of a comprehensive test campaign on plasterboards in current literature is noted. An extensive test campaign consisting of 302 tests on plasterboards is performed both in tension and compression. A set of five plasterboard typologies is selected. The tests are performed in two different load directions: parallel or transversal to the direction of production. Tensile strength of the boards was systematically smaller than compressive strength, whereas elastic modulus values in compression and in tension are similar. Two different regression laws are defined for compression and tension behavior. An orthotropic behavior was exhibited in cases where the boards are loaded in tension. The significant influence of board thickness on their mechanical properties was also highlighted. Finally, the most appropriate probability distribution function was estimated for several mechanical parameters, and the corresponding data dispersion is evaluated. The performed activities can be used as reference for future numerical studies involving plasterboards.