Multi-level characterization of steel reinforced mortars for strengthening of masonry structures

Abstract

Textile Reinforced Mortars (TRMs) have received extensive attention for externally bonded reinforcement of historical and masonry structures. Despite this recent attention, the available information on the test methods and mechanical performance of TRMs at different scales are limited. Extensive experimental results are still necessary for development of design formulas and application guidelines. This paper presents a multi-level experimental investigation on the performance of Steel Reinforced Grouts (SRGs) as a common TRM type. The focus is not only on the mechanical characterization but also the test methods and practical challenges. The tests include materials characterization, fiber-to-mortar bond characterization, tensile tests on TRM composite, and TRM-to-masonry bond characterization tests. The tests are performed on three different SRG systems made of pozzolanic lime-based and geopolymeric-based mortars as sustainable matrices for strengthening and restoration applications.

Mechanics and durability of lime-based textile reinforced mortars

“…the textile-tomortar bond behaviour, and the parameters affecting that, remain poorly addressed and understood, see e.g. [1,20,21].…”

“…When TRC/TRMs are used for strengthening of existing structural components, the TRM-to-substrate bond behaviour and the hygro-thermo-mechanical compatibility of its matrix with the substrate becomes important as well [1], see Fig. 1(b).…”

“…[22][23][24][25][26][27], the existing literature on the bond behaviour of TRM composites that are of interest for strengthening of masonry structures is very limited, (see e.g. [1,20,21] for a steel and a glass-based TRM).…”

“…The TRM-to-masonry bond tests have been extensively used for characterization of the bond performance in TRMstrengthened components [1][2][3]6]. A large variety of singlelap and double-lap shear test setups have been used and proposed by different authors.…”

“…Application of textile reinforced mortars (TRMs) for externally bonded reinforcement of existing concrete and masonry structures has recently received a growing attention. The better physical, mechanical and hygrothermal compatibility of TRMs with masonry and concrete, compared to that of conventional fibre reinforced polymers [1][2][3][4] has made these composites the preferred choice for strengthening of those structures.…”