Uniaxial Experimental Tests on Full-Scale Limestone Masonry Columns Confined with Glass and Basalt FRCM Systems

A large number of masonry buildings have been designed to sustain gravity loads or with reference to obsolete seismic provisions. Columns are among the weakest elements, especially in historical buildings. Many experiments have been carried out over the last few decades to investigate the effectiveness of fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) jackets for confinement. Owing to the poor chemical compatibility of FRPs with masonry substrates, a new technique based on the replacement of resin with an inorganic matrix [fabric-reinforced cementitious matrix (FRCM)] has been developed. There are very few reports available on tests conducted on FRCM-confined masonry columns, especially with reference to full-scale specimens. To fill this gap, uniaxial pure compression tests were carried out on seven full-scale limestone masonry columns. In particular, the investigation examined the effectiveness of FRCM systems based on the use of alkali-resistant glass- and basalt-fiber grids embedded in lime-based mortar. The use of an internal reinforcement provided by pultruded glass bars or helical stainless steel bars in a dry application is also analyzed.