Mechanical characterization and modeling of FRP-reinforced masonry triplets

In this contribution the shear behaviour of masonry triplets, possibly strengthened by Fiber-Reinforced Polymer (FRP) sheets, was investigated from the experimental and numerical standpoint. Diverse configurations were considered for the glued fiber sheets, reinforcing the entire face of the samples or only a half of it. The tests were monitored by an optical system, allowing one to track the displacements of targets glued over the free surface. Nonlinear finite element analyses were carried out, allowing one to correlate the measured response to bulk processes. The experimental data revealed the important role played by the external reinforcement, apt to increase not only the overall strength of the triplets but also their ductility, by exerting a confinement even when highly damaged regions are present in the sample, and hence delaying the ultimate failure.