Shaking table studies of FRP-reinforced masonry: experimental and numerical results

Numerous investigations to date have explored the potential use of FRP (Fibre Reinforced Polymers) on concrete and on masonry structures as a strengthening solution. The majority of these studies have focused on the in-plane or the out-of-plane monotonic loading and the general trend has been to adapt the monotonic loading assessment methods for seismic loading as well. A need to evaluate the mechanical behaviour of the FRP reinforced masonry infill panels under truly seismic conditions has emerged. Full-scale shaking table tests were carried out at the University of Bristol on both reinforced and unreinforced masonry specimens in order to fill the gap in the existing knowledge on the dynamic behaviour of these structures. This paper presents a summary of the experimental programme together with the most relevant findings from tests. The experimental observations on pre-cracking and post-cracking behaviour are meant to provide more understanding on the reinforcement requirements
associated with a seismically-sound system. Two modelling techniques have been used to model the behaviour of the FRP strengthened wall. Firstly, a neural network based software tool and secondly, a discrete element based model have been used to predict the mechanical response of FRP strengthened masonry walls and the simulation outcomes have been compared with the experimental ones.