The paper deals with the strengthening of thin masonry vaults by means of a CRM
(Composite Reinforced Mortar) strengthening technique based on Glass Fiber-Reinforced
Polymer (GFRP) meshes embedded in a 30 mm thick mortar matrix, applied at the vault
extrados or intrados and connected to the masonry abutments through steel bars and GFRP
elements. The experimental campaign concerned quasi static cyclic tests performed on four
full-scale samples, supporting their self-weight only and subjected to uniform horizontal
transversal loading. The results of the tests are described in terms of crack pattern, failure
mode and load-displacement graphs, referring both to the horizontal displacement monitored
at the crown section and to the sliding at the spring sections. High improvements in terms of
both resistance and displacement capacities emerged in respect to the plain masonry and the
connection with the abutments resulted fundamental for ensuring the reinforcement
effectiveness.
Abstract
The paper deals with the strengthening of thin masonry vaults by means of a CRM
(Composite Reinforced Mortar) strengthening technique based on Glass Fiber-Reinforced
Polymer (GFRP) meshes embedded in a 30 mm thick mortar matrix, applied at the vault
extrados or intrados and [...]