Masonry Reinforcement with IMG Composites: Experimental Investigation

Abstract

The interest in strengthening of historical masonry structures is significantly grown especially to techniques which combine properties like as reversibility, compatibility, and sustainability of the intervention. Among these, a promising technique is the use of inorganic matrix grid (IMG) composites. Several experimental tests have been carried out to prove the effectiveness of this system as a strengthening solution for different masonry types. The present paper presents the original results of five tests on uncoursed stone masonry panels under diagonal compression and collect the data of previous tests carried out by the authors on other masonry typologies. The tests results on several masonry types and strengthening layouts as well as Fiber reinforced Polymer (FRP) grid and mortar types are reported and discussed. The experimental programs clearly confirmed the effectiveness of the investigated strengthening technique to increase the panels shear capacity and ductility; however, a suitable theoretical expression to quantify the benefits provided by this strengthening solution, based on the reinforcement layout and on the masonry type, is still missing. The comparative analysis of the experimental data is presented in the paper in order to clarify the benefits provided by each strengthening system.