Studies on the Strength of Hollow Concrete Block Masonry Externally Bonded with Textile Reinforced Mortar Composites

Abstract

Textile reinforced mortar often referred as TRM in the literature combines open mesh configuration textiles with inorganic cement-based mortars. The aim of the present study is to determine the mechanical properties of hollow concrete block masonry externally bonded with coir and glass textile reinforced mortar composites. The properties of textile composites were determined by testing TRM Coupons. A total of 39 prisms were cast. The block masonry prisms were externally bonded with coir and glass textile fiber mesh with mortar. The elastic properties of block masonry, shear and flexural strength were determined for both unreinforced and strengthened specimens. The results showed that increasing the number of layers of textile fibers, enhanced the flexural capacity of TRM coupons. The provision of connectors also enhanced flexural strength. The stiffness of unreinforced masonry prisms was found to increase by strengthening with textile reinforcements even though the increase in compressive strength is marginal. There is a significant enhancement in flexural strength and shear bond strength of externally bonded specimens when compared to unreinforced masonry.