Strengthening of Unreinforced Masonry Walls Using FRPs

Abstract

An experimental program conducted at the University of Alberta showed that externally applied fiber reinforced polymers (FRPs) are effective in increasing the load-carrying capacity of unreinforced masonry walls that are subjected to out-of-plane flexural loads. Ten walls with a height of 4 m were used to conduct 13 tests in two series. Both undamaged and slightly damaged walls were tested. The following experimental parameters were investigated: (1) type of fiber reinforcement; (2) amount of fiber reinforcement; (3) layout of fiber reinforcement; (4) effects of moderate compressive axial load; and (5) cyclic behavior. This paper briefly reviews the existing rehabilitation methods available and explains why the use of FRPs as external reinforcement is a possible alternative. The test setup and instrumentation of the specimens are described followed by a discussion of the results. The general behavior of the specimens is discussed with emphasis on the load deflection and strain characteristics. The modes of failure are identified and categorized. Finally, a simple analytical model is proposed and compared with the test results followed by a summary of the major results.