Simple homogenized model for the non-linear analysis of FRP strengthened masonry structures. Part II : structural applications

Abstract

The homogenized masonry nonlinear stress-strain curves obtained through the simple micromechanical model developed in the first part of the paper are here used for the analysis of strengthened masonry walls under various loading conditions. In particular, a deep beam and a shear wall strengthened with fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) strips are analyzed for masonry loaded in-plane. Additionally, single and double curvature masonry structures strengthened in various ways, namely a circular arch with buttresses and a ribbed cross vault, are considered. For all the examples presented, both the nonstrengthened and FRP–strengthened cases are discussed. Additional nonlinear finite-element analyses are performed, modeling masonry through an equivalent macroscopic material with softening to assess the present model predictions. Detailed comparisons between the experimental data, where available, and numerical results are also presented. The examples show the efficiency of the homogenized technique with respect to (1) accuracy of the results; (2) low number of finite elements required; and (3) independence of the mesh at a structural level from the actual texture of masonry.