Flexural and Shear Strength of Granite Reinforced by Metal Rods

Abstract

This paper investigates feasibility of reinforcement method for fractured granite of slab type and beam members used as components of old stone masonry pagodas. Investigation of the effect of reinforcement to flexural and shear strength is performed using the concept for the high strength concrete since the mechanical properties of granite are similar to properties of high strength of concrete. In this experimental program two types of notched specimens are intended for failures with shear and flexural cracks. Intended fractured specimens are reinforced by metal rods, so called pinning method. The rods are inserted in holes and bonded with inorganic cement. The metal rods are supposed to transfer forces by tensile resistance in flexure and dowel action in shear. Increase in shear and flexural capacities and ductile behavior after sudden yielding of the metal rods are observed. The final failure cracks in reinforced specimens occurred different from interfaces along the original cracks. Locations of metal rods, their numbers, and construction of anchored rod are main variables to be examined for guidelines for reinforcement methods.