Abstract
In this paper a mechanical model of masonry arches strengthened with fibre-reinforced composite materials and the relevant numerical procedure for the analysis are proposed. The arch is modelled by using an assemblage of rigid blocks that are connected together and, also to the supporting structures, by mortar joints. The presence of the reinforcement, usually a sheet placed at the intrados or the extrados, prevents the occurrence of cracks that could activate possible collapse mechanisms, due to tensile failure of the mortar joints. Therefore, in a reinforced arch failure generally occurs in a different way from the URM arch. The numerical procedure proposed checks, as a function of an external incremental load, the inner stress state in the arch, in the reinforcement and in the adhesive layer. In so doing, it then provides a prediction of failure modes. Results obtained from experimental tests, carried out on four in-scale models performed in a laboratory, have been compared with those provided by the numerical procedure, implemented in ArchiVAULT, a software developed by the author. In this regard, the numerical procedure is an extension of previous works. Although additional experimental investigations are necessary, these former results confirm that the proposed numerical procedure is promising.
Highlights
In recent years innovative materials and techniques [1,2,3,4,5,6] for strengthening and repairing architectural and monumental heritage constructions [7,8], as well as ruins in the archaeological sites [9], have been widely used
Results obtained from experimental tests, carried out on four in-scale models performed in a laboratory, have been compared with those provided by the numerical procedure, implemented in ArchiVAULT, a software developed by the author
Failure modes of an arch reinforced with FRP materials are different from the typical failure modes of an URM one
Summary
In recent years innovative materials and techniques [1,2,3,4,5,6] for strengthening and repairing architectural and monumental heritage constructions [7,8], as well as ruins in the archaeological sites [9], have been widely used. Masonry arches and vaults have been successfully strengthened using composite materials applied at the intrados or the extrados. The intervention of strengthening or consolidation made using composite materials is more targeted and less invasive in comparison to the traditional technologies and materials employed in the recent past. Composite materials and masonry are very compatible [16] (such as in the case of concrete reinforced by steel) and each of these two materials offers particular performance and strengths in the structure: the masonry supports compressive forces, while tensile forces, which cannot be supported by the masonry, are diverted to the fibers, which are designed to perform this function. The reinforced masonry is, in turn, configured as an innovative material, its design must consider
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callMore From: IOP Conference Series: Materials Science and Engineering
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
