Diagonal compression tests on masonry wallets coated with mortars reinforced with glass fibers

Abstract

Low shear strength of historical masonry constructions is a matter of great concern, especially when these buildings are located in areas of high seismic risk. In recent years this issue has led to many investigations on the development of innovative reinforcement techniques. The application of cement mortar, commonly used in this type of reinforcements, involves a number of material incompatibility problems that could be overcome with the use of lime-based binder mortars. The present article presents the results of an experimental study on solid mock brick wallets reinforced with thin layers of mortar mixed with glass fibers; Diagonal compression tests have been carried out to determine the behaviour of the reinforced masonries, evaluated both in terms of shear strength and deformation capacity. Test results verify that the coating of mortar mixed with fibers is practically as effective as cement mortar regarding shear strength, while they improve deformation capacity.