Masonry Strengthening with Composites

Main problems related to the use and application of composites in masonry structures concern the clarification of bond and shear phenomena, for which design formulation are still under study. The paper presents an overview of data available in literature, pointing out the lacking aspects, as well as the possible developments on the field. As for shear, an estimation of the contribution of composites calibrated on experimental diagonal-compression test results, based on the definition of effectiveness curves, is proposed. Moreover, some correlation functions between the bond strength under loads orthogonal to the plane of masonry and the mechanical characteristics of bricks are discussed. Finally, to promote cooperation among researchers in the field of composites in masonry constructions, some indications on the work in progress and the first products of an international committee are reported.