Evaluation of creep effects on textile-reinforced mortar via single-lap shear testing

The use of textile-reinforced mortars (TRMs) for reinforcing existing masonry structures is becoming increasingly prevalent. Despite extensive research on the durability of TRMs in various challenging environments, their behavior under continuous loading conditions, particularly creep behavior, remains poorly understood. This study addresses this gap by investigating the long-term performance of TRMs under sustained loading through single-lap shear tests. The experimental campaign included strength tests on the mortar and composite at different curing ages, along with creep behavior analysis of the textile itself. The experiments utilized a commercially available glass fiber fabric embedded in a lime-based mortar. Specimens were first tested after 90 days of curing to establish their average strength. Subsequently, they were subjected to sustained loads ranging from 30 % to 70 % of their average load-bearing capacity at 90 days. A total of 12 specimens were tested under different creep loading conditions over a 250-day period. The mechanical properties of the mortar were evaluated through compressive, flexural, and elastic modulus tests, while tensile tests were performed on the textiles. The results indicate that TRMs exhibit varying degrees of creep deformation depending on the applied load levels and curing age, with higher loads leading to more rapid creep progression and earlier failure. Specimens with longer curing times showed better resistance to creep, maintaining their structural integrity over extended periods. This study also provides valuable insights into optimizing curing processes and load applications in TRM systems, enhancing their long-term performance in structural reinforcement applications.