Masonry Confinement Using Steel Strips
This paper presents the behavior of masonry columns confined with steel strips for increasing the axial capacity and stress-strain relationship. The test specimens are divided into three groups; each consists of three specimens with the variables: amount of reinforcement and cross-section aspect ratio. The cross-sectional aspect ratio of the three groups were 1, 2, 3 respectively. The experimental data and highlights different aspects of confinement. The steel strips enhance the ultimate stress and strain but this increase in strength is dependant on the cross-sectional aspect ratio. It is also concluded that the increase in load-carrying capacity and the deformability of masonry is significantly enhanced due to confinement using steel strips and the increase is linear to the average confining stress. The confinement of masonry with steel strips is quite viable and cheap option for strengthening
Strengthening of Masonry Assemblages with FRP Rods and Laminates
The present study, part of the collaboration project between the University of Missouri – Rolla and University of Padua, investigates in-plane and out-of-plane load conditions applied to different constructive typologies of FRP strengthened masonry panels. The laboratory experimental program includes a preliminary material characterization, bonding investigations and coupon wall testing. Diagonal compression and flexural tests are performed on clay and concrete masonry wallettes in order to identify the influence of different combinations of FRP reinforcement systems. Parameters such as strengthening set-up, anchoring details, installation and strip width are evaluated. Original failure mechanisms are modified, increasing noticeably ultimate capacities and introducing semi-ductile behaviors. Some specimens subjected to shear load cycles present high levels of energy-dissipation and remarkable post-damage load bearing capacity. In addition to the lightness and corrosion resistance properties, the new technology, called FRP “structural repointing,” introduces aesthetic and rapid application advantages.
In-Plane Testing of Damaged Masonry Wall Repaired with FRP
This paper describes the perfonnance of a masonry wall repaired with glass fibre reinforced polymer, GFRP sheets. The original reinforced clay brick masonry wall was tested under in-plane lateral cyclic loading. Failure occurred due to yielding of the steel reinforcement and crushing of the bricks. After epoxy injection of the cracks and patching of the missing portions, the wall was repaired using GFRP sheets, applied in the horizontal and vertical directions, on one face ofthe wall, including the joint between the wall and concrete footing. The repaired wall was tested to failure in the same manner of the original wall. The results show that the strength and displacement capacities of the wall were completely restored and even exceeded the original capacities.