Numerical analysis of masonry confined by FRCM

In the present paper, structural behaviour of masonry columns strengthened with fiber reinforced cementitious matrix have been investigated; in particular, numerical 3D simulations calibrated on experimental tests have been presented. Three-dimensional numerical model, realized by using the commercial code MIDAS FEA, based on a macro-model approach, has been used to simulate the nonlinear structural behavior of masonry columns strengthened with FRCM, and two different models for unreinforced and strengthened columns have been adopted. The 3D numerical approach are presented and results discussed to investigate the interaction between masonry columns and reinforcement. The numerical model has been calibrated on a large number of experimental tests on confined masonry columns carried out at the University of Bologna; in particular, columns have been wrapped by FRP and FRCM and with different arrangements (continuous and discontinuous). The comparison of the numerical models with the experimental outcomes shows a good matching in terms of axial forces-strain curves and strength peak.