Assessment of overlay masonry strengthening system under in-plane monotonic and cyclic loading using the diagonal tensile test

The development of novel strengthening techniques to address the seismic vulnerability of masonry elements is gradually leading to simpler, faster and more effective strengthening strategies. In particular, the use of fabric reinforced cementitious matrix systems is considered of great potential, given the increase of ductility achieved with simple and economic strengthening procedures. To assess the effectiveness of these strengthening systems, and considering that the seismic action is involved, one important component of the structural behaviour is the in-plane cyclic response. In this work is discussed the applicability of the diagonal tensile test for the assessment of the cyclic response of strengthened masonry. The results obtained allowed to assess the contribution of the strengthening system to the increase of the load carrying capacity of masonry elements, as well as to evaluate the damage evolution and the stiffness degradation mechanisms developing under cyclic loading.

This research was carried in the framework of InoTec, Innovative material of ultra-high 16 ductility for the rehabilitation of the built patrimony, funded by COMPETE/QREN/FEDER 17 (NORTE-07-0202-FEDER-023024). InoTec project is promoted by CiviTest company 18 and University of Minho. S&P Clever Reinforcement Ibérica is gratefully acknowledged 19 for providing the materials used in the strengthening of the masonry specimens.