Comparison of Two Parameters Models for clay brick masonry confinement

Abstract

Masonry elements are often confined in order to improve their structural capacity. Generalized methods to assess the behavior of confined masonry columns are usually derived from concrete confinement models. However, concrete and masonry present several crucial differences due to their physical and mechanical properties. The recent scientific researches provided relevant information on the experimental behavior of confined masonry columns. In this paper, the Stassi D'Alia failure criterion, recently particularized by the authors to assess the axial capacity of confined solid clay brick masonry, has been discussed remarking its potential as a solid mechanics model. The model has been validated by means of comparisons with 67 relevant experimental results available in the scientific literature. The tested specimens made of solid clay bricks were strengthened with several types of strengthening systems. In order to assess the potential of the confined model, the comparison included also other four available mechanical models based on classical failure criteria available in the scientific literature. The reliability of the confinement models was remarked by assessing some relevant statistical parameters.