Mechanical Behaviour of Metal Anchors in Historic Brick Masonry: An Experimental Approach

Abstract

Many historic buildings degrade and partially collapse due to the action of time and to lack of maintenance; only their façades remain. Their consolidation and reuse have fundamental importance to preserve the architectural heritage. In several cases, these buildings are made of brick masonry and interventions demand using metallic structures. The connection between the masonry, which has already lost its initial strength capacity, and the proposed structure must be carefully analysed to avoid structural damages to the building. The aim of the current study is to investigate the mechanical behaviour of metal anchors used to connect the walls to the metallic structure, whether provisionally or permanently, for shoring purposes or for building repairs, strengthening or rehabilitation ones. An experimental campaign was carried out; it included pull-out tests applied to two types of adhesive (chemical and grout) and mechanical anchors in brick masonry built in laboratory using hydraulic lime mortar and low mechanical strength bricks. Tensile force results were compared to predictive analytical formulas available in the literature. The current research contributes to the selection of the most efficient structural bond in terms of adhesion in historic brick masonry, thus contributing to the preservation of the historical, artistic and cultural heritage.