FRCM/SRG-masonry joints: Experimental investigation and numerical modelling

The results of single-lap shear tests, performed on specimens with Fiber Reinforced Cementitious Matrix (FRCM) or Steel Reinforced Grout (SRG) composite strips bonded to masonry unit, are presented in this paper. This study indicates a different type of failure modes occur in PBO FRCM and SRG – masonry joints, respectively. The PBO-FRCM exhibited the typically telescopic failure mode while the SRG shows a slippage of the fibers and fracture of the external matrix layer at the fiber-matrix interface for both the composite systems investigated. Moreover, a 3D numerical model by the commercial code ABAQUS was realized, it is calibrated on the results present in this study. The macro model approach was used with two different bond-slip relationships present in literature. The validity of the numerical model is verified by the comparison with the experimental results in terms of the applied load-global slip and the crack patterns.