Mathematical modelling of timber-framed walls strengthened with CFRP strips

This paper provides mathematical modelling for prefabricated timber-framed walls composed of a timber frame and fibre-plaster boards. Because the tensile strength of the fibre-plaster boards is approximately 10-times lower than the compressive one, it is convenient to strengthen the boards in their tensile diagonal direction with carbon fibre-reinforced polymer (CFRP) strips, which are glued to the boards. Based on analysis of experimental research results [M. Premrov, P. Dobrila, B.S. Bedenik, Analysis of timber-framed walls coated with CFRP strips strengthened fibre-plaster boards, Int. J. Solids Struct. 41 (24/25) (2004) 7035–7048] special approximate mathematical models have been developed. The models enable simultaneously to consider the influence of inserted CFRP strips, flexibility of mechanical fasteners in the connecting areas and any appearing of tensile cracks in the coating boards.