Experimental In-Plane Behavior of Tuff Masonry Strengthened with Cementitious Matrix–Grid Composites

TLDR

Tuff buildings are common in the Mediterranean and require preservation, especially in seismic zones, prompting the development of noninvasive strengthening strategies for historic masonry. This study presents a comprehensive experimental program on tuff masonry panels to advance understanding of their in‑plane behavior when strengthened with composite materials. The authors strengthened panels with a cement‑based matrix‑coated alkali‑resistant glass grid, tested various CMG layouts, characterized base materials, performed uniaxial and shear tests, and finally subjected panels to displacement‑controlled diagonal compression to assess in‑plane deformation, strength, and post‑peak softening. The experiments revealed the in‑plane deformation and strength characteristics of CMG‑strengthened tuff panels, including their post‑peak softening behavior, thereby enriching the knowledge base for seismic applications.

Abstract

Tuff buildings are a significant part of the Mediterranean area and are to be preserved from a structural viewpoint especially in seismic areas. Over the past few decades, the interest in strengthening of historical tuff masonry structures has led to developing specific and noninvasive architectural and engineering strategies. In the present paper, a comprehensive experimental program on tuff masonry panels is presented; the results are intended as a contribution to the knowledge of in-plane behavior of tuff masonry strengthened with composite materials. Particularly, a cement based matrix-coated alkali resistant glass grid system (CMG) was used to strengthen tuff masonry walls; different CMG layouts were selected, and overall performances were compared with those of as-built ones. The characterization of base materials was carried out first, followed by uniaxial tests of masonry and shear tests on triplets. Finally, tuff masonry panels were subjected to diagonal compression loading under displacement control in order to measure their in-plane deformation and strength properties, including the postpeak softening regime in view of seismic applications.