Bond analysis of masonry structures strengthened with CFRP sheets

The use of fiber reinforced plastic (FRP) plates and sheets for strengthening masonry structures is a promising technique but further investigations are needed in this area in order to carry out design guidelines. A considerable world wide effort has been expended into investigating the bond characteristics between RC elements and composite materials but little work has been undertaken in the sphere of masonry structures. The present paper reports part of a research project, still in progress, devoted to the analysis of the bond performance between FRP sheets and typical natural stones utilized for masonry structures in Southern Italy. The test procedure will be given and the results obtained discussed. Two commercially available CFRP sheets and two different types of masonry blocks have been used in the first stage of the analysis. Bond stresses at the interface between the two adherents have been evaluated and slip values determined. The influence of the specimens geometry has also been considered as well as the bond length parameter.