Influence of Freeze/Thaw and Alkaline Environment on the Mechanical Properties of a C-FRCM System Bonded on Masonry Substrate

In the last two decades, Fabric Reinforced Cementitious Matrix (FRCM) systems were used to strengthen and rehabilitate historical masonry structures as an alternative of the well-known Fiber-Reinforced Polymer (FRP) systems. The FRCMs consist of different types of fiber in form of fabric mesh embedded in a cementitious/hydraulic or lime matrix; they present better compatibility with the substrate and less limitations in heritage applications. However, the durability and the interaction FRCM-substrate under artificial aging mechanisms in aggressive environment is not well known. At this aim an experimental program focused on the durability of the FRCM systems was planned. The paper reports and discusses the first results of this program. The effects of the freeze/thaw and alkaline environment on both the mechanical properties of the FRCM coupons and the bond FRCM-to-masonry substrate were evaluated by the results of direct tensile and single-lap shear tests.