Diagonal Tension Testing of As-Built and Fabric Reinforced Cementitious Matrix Strengthened Masonry Panels

Abstract eng:
Reinforced concrete frames with infill masonry panels (IMPs) exhibit complex in-plane seismic behaviour, with IMPs contributing to the frame strength/stiffness while acting as shear bracing panels and undergoing damage. Amongst several options, one option to limit such earthquake damage to IMPs is the surface application of a polymer fabric-reinforced cementitious matrix (FRCM). Presented in this article are preliminary results from the first series of tests undertaken as part of an experimental program investigating the effectiveness of FRCM as a strengthening solution to limit shear damage in IMPs. The experimental program involved characterisation of constituent materials (i.e. testing of masonry units, masonry mortar, FRCM matrix) and the diagonal shear testing of as-built and FRCM strengthened test panels. A total of seven test panels were constructed using 150 mm thick hollow concrete masonry units, laid in a stack bond pattern with a 1:3 by mass cement-sand mortar. Experimental results of tested panels were analysed to evaluate their shear stress-strain response, ultimate shear strength, pseudo-ductility, and stiffness characteristics. The experimental results from FRCM strengthened test panels were then compared to those from as-built tested panel to quantify the performance improvement achieved using FRCM strengthening. The shear strength of FRCM strengthened test panels was 180-270% of that from corresponding asbuilt tested panel, whereas the failure mode changed from brittle collapse to a ductile gradual failure. Typical damage patterns observed in FRCM strengthened test panels included crushing at loaded corners and distributed narrow cracking along the loaded diagonal of the test panel.

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