Discrete modelling of externally bonded composite layers on masonry structures

The safeguard of existing masonry structures requires the adoption of structural retrofitting strategies able to preserve the architectural value of the construction. Numerous strengthening techniques are available for the rehabilitation of exitsting structures, including historic and monumental buildings, most of them based on the application of Externally Bonded Composite (EBC) layers on the masonry surfaces. Such a technique represents a low-invasive retrofitting strategy widely used in engineering practice. In this paper, within the framework of the Discrete Macro-Element Method (DMEM) already introduced by the authors, an original macro-element for modelling the interaction between masonry elements and EBC layers is presented. The proposed model is able to provide a reliable simulation of the EBC layer applications to masonry structures while maintaining a low computational burden. After a theoretical description of the EBC macro-element, the new macro-modelling approach is validated against experimental and numerical tests available in the literature.