nnovative strengthening solutions, such as Fiber Reinforced Cementitious
Matrix (FRCM), are becoming increasingly diffused for the retrofitting of existing masonry
structures with the aim of reducing the seismic vulnerability of these construction
typologies. In recent years, many studies have demonstrated the suitability of these materials
in enhancing the shear capacity of masonry walls and improve the overall structural behavior,
avoiding fragile collapse mechanisms. In the present work, six diagonal compression
tests were performed on unstrengthened and FRCM strengthened masonry panels to
evaluate the improvements attributable to the presence of the FRCM systems. Two different
bidirectional basalt grids were applied to the masonry samples, with and without mechanical
anchorages. The tensile and bond properties of the chosen FRCM systems were
investigated through laboratory tests. The objective was, indeed, to compare the
performances of two textiles, characterized by different densities, and to investigate the
role of mechanical anchorages. The experimental results confirmed the efficiency of the
FRCM strengthening systems in improving the shear behavior of masonry panels. The
FRCM strengthened samples experienced a considerable strength increase and less brittle
failure mechanisms. The roles of both the mortar matrix, the fiber grids and the mechanical
anchorages were highlighted by analyzing the onset of cracking and the failure propagation
within the samples.
Abstract
nnovative strengthening solutions, such as Fiber Reinforced Cementitious
Matrix (FRCM), are becoming increasingly diffused for the retrofitting of existing masonry
structures with the aim of reducing the seismic vulnerability of these construction
typologies. [...]