Non-linear analysis of masonry arches reinforced with FRP strips: an efficient homogenization approach

In this paper, an efficient homogenized Finite Element approach for the non-linear analysis of FRP reinforced masonry arches is presented. A unit cell constitute by a mortar joint reduced to interface with holonomic non-linear frictional behavior and two elastic half bricks is considered, in order to derive computationally the homogenized stress-strain behavior to be used at a structural level. The global response in terms of force-displacement curves and deformed shape of the homogenized arch are compared to both that obtained by means of a detailed micro-modelling strategy, where joints and bricks are modeled separately, and experimental evidences. A satisfactory agreement is found in both presence and absence of FRP reinforcement.