Archives of Civil Engineering

Abstract

Traditional methods of restoring historical buildings typically consisted in replacing the damaged elements or additional steel and reinforced concrete elements were inserted into the old structure. They significantly interfered with the statics and aesthetics of buildings. Current composite materials used in restoration damage the old structure only slightly and can usually be removed in the future. Due to these advantages they comply with the conservation law in force. This paper presents a few examples of practical applications of composites the authors have designed for structural reinforcement and protection of historical buildings. Repairs of columns, vaults, masonry walls, stone facades and wooden beams with the use of steel screw-shaped bars and high strength fibres in epoxy resin or cement matrix were presented. Problems of ensuring the proper bond of the composite to the old substrate and insufficient coverage of the fibers with the cement matrix were considered. Although the threats and structural damages which occur in most historical buildings tend to be similar, individual design solutions are required in each case. Historical investigation and detailed measurement of geometry and deflections have to be made before choosing the appropriate method of reinforcing the old structure. It can be predicted that prestressing composite materials used for historical structures will also be applied.