Different Reinforcement Techniques in Damaged Buildings

Abstract

During their lifetime, the capacity of the single elements or of the entire structures is not anymore adequate to the static and dynamic functions requested by the project, mainly caused from deterioration of the masonry structures or the change of the destination and the purpose of the elements. Externally bonded FRP may be used in a repair capacity for structures that have moderate earthquakes damages or to reinforce structures considered to be vulnerable. The FRP strengthening systems are used mainly for flexural and shear strengthening of the structural elements subjected to bending moments and shear forces larger than their flexural and shear capacity, especially the beam-column joints. Many experiences in rehabilitation of damaged masonry buildings have been carried out in Europe in the last decades. Several unsuccessful results have underscored the need for adequate assessment prior to any rehabilitation. In fact, when neither the real state of damage nor the effectiveness of repairs is known, the results of the intervention are also unpredictable. In this article there are described different techniques used for reinforcement of masonry structures, with their advantages or disadvantages.