Analysis of the behavior of FRCM confined clay brick masonry columns

The behavior of FRCM (Fabric Reinforced Cementitious Mortar) confined clay brick masonry columns is analyzed in this paper. The results of an experimental investigation conducted on small-scale columns made by clay brick masonry confined with steel-FRCM (or Steel Reinforced Grout, SRG), PBO (poly-paraphenylene-benzo-bisoxazole) FRCM and basalt-FRCM, tested under monotonic compressive load, are described and discussed. Tests were conducted on thirteen prismatic columns; eleven columns (two unconfined and nine confined) were tested under concentric load while an eccentric load was applied on two confined columns. For each confinement system, the parameters investigated were the 'confinement ratio', the 'load eccentricity' and the 'overlap configuration of the fiber fabrics'. FRCM confinement improved the structural response of masonry columns in terms of ultimate strength, ultimate strain and ductility. Some models from the literature were also examined to evaluate their applicability in predicting the axial capacity of confined columns.