Analytical modelling of the out-of-plane behavior of CFRP and ductile adhesive reinforced clay brick masonry walls

In an experimental testing program three different ductile adhesive reinforced masonry configurations were involved. The first configuration consisted of a carbon fibre reinforced polymer (CFRP) strip placed in the heart of the masonry wallettes with a visco-elastic epoxy. The second configuration had an additional surface treatment based on a polymer. The third configuration was similar to the second one, however with a cement based surface treatment with imbedded CFRP net. The results of the experimental tests confirmed the strong increase in both the moment- and flexural capacity and supported the previously stated significant gain in ductility. The purpose of the research was to model out of plane behaviour of QSRM. A discrete model is described that can be used to determine the structural behaviour of non-load bearing clay brick masonry walls which are enhanced by applying the aforementioned reinforcement configurations. The model consists of stiff masonry blocks and discrete joints at the locations of the first cracks. The relation between the internal moment and the rotation in the discrete joint is based on the bond behaviour of the CFRP strips and, when it is applied, the polymer finish. The bonding behaviour of the CFRP strips is derived from pull-out tests. The results of the model are compared with results from experimental research after the out of plane behaviour of clay brick masonry walls has been enhanced with the ductile adhesive configurations. From this comparison it is concluded that the model is able to describe the experimental out of plane behaviour.