Durability of Stainless-Steel Reinforced Grout against Salt Attack

Abstract

Steel reinforced grout is one of the most effective mortar-based composites for the strengthening of masonry structures. Nonetheless, the deterioration of steel cords, especially when embedded in lime-based matrices, may compromise the long-term effectiveness of the strengthening systems. The use of stainless-steel may overcome this drawback, but it has received limited attention so far, since its higher cost makes it less competitive in the market. This work presents a laboratory investigation on the durability of stainless-steel reinforced grout against salt attack, which is the most severe aging condition. Tensile tests were carried out on bare textiles and composite specimens before and after aging in substitute ocean water for up to 5000 hours. Bent textiles, which are required by a number of structural applications, were aged and tested as well. Test outcomes indicate that this technology may be successfully used for the life-span strengthening of the built heritage.