Fiber reinforced mortar mixtures for the reconstruction and rehabilitation of existing masonry structures

C. Armwood, A. Sorensen, B. Skourup, E. Erdogmus

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

7 Scopus citations

Abstract

The majority of the world's architectural heritage encompasses unreinforced masonry structures, which are generally strong enough for the gravity loads, but are vulnerable against unexpected magnitudes of external out-of-plane loads and environmental effects. The recent trend of rehabilitating and strengthening unreinforced masonry with fiber reinforced polymer laminates, while effective, is not desirable in scenarios where aesthetics are important. Thus, there is a need for an equally effective yet aesthetically pleasing methodology. In this paper, the use of fiber-reinforced-mortars (FRMs) is proposed for masonry rehabilitation and reconstruction applications. Two types of fibers are considered; polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) fibers and novel organic fibers, such as corn silks. Several specimens with different type, size and volume fraction of fibers are tested in compression and flexure. Mixture proportions and the tested mechanical properties of each mixture are gathered in the form of a database. While the study is ongoing and the results are preliminary, it is found that certain volume fractions of PVA fibers are very effective in improving the toughness, ductility and durability of mortars. It is also found that corn silk FRMs show great potential for inexpensive and sustainable means to strengthen masonry structures.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationProceedings of the AEI 2008 Conference - AEI 2008
Subtitle of host publicationBuilding Integration Solutions
PublisherAmerican Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)
ISBN (Print)9780784410028
DOIs
StatePublished - 2008
EventAEI 2008 Conference - AEI 2008: Building Integration Solutions - Denver, CO, United States
Duration: Sep 24 2008Sep 26 2008

Publication series

NameProceedings of the AEI 2008 Conference - AEI 2008: Building Integration Solutions
Volume328

Conference

ConferenceAEI 2008 Conference - AEI 2008: Building Integration Solutions
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityDenver, CO
Period9/24/089/26/08

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Civil and Structural Engineering
  • Building and Construction
  • Architecture

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