Experimental study on thermal matrix composite for seismic-energy upgrade of masonry buildings

The existing building stock consists mainly of masonry constructions built long before modern seismic regulations and the issue of energy saving. As a result of the well-known problems related to climate change and the need to reduce energy consumption, the issues of sustainability and reducing the environmental impact of the construction industry have become increasingly relevant. In this context, the present research addresses an integrated way for both structural and energy upgrade of masonry buildings. Specifically, innovative fibre-reinforced composite materials assembled by using lime-based thermal matrices combined with a balanced high-strength basalt fibre were experimentally investigated at the Laboratory of the University of Florence. These composite materials are identified by the acronym FRLM (Fiber Reinforced Lime Matrix). Initial work involved the selection of thermally efficient and compatible matrices, and then, the composite materials were investigated through tensile tests and single shear tests in order to evaluate their bond performance. Different bond lengths were considered with the goal of identifying the effective one.