Numerical modeling of FRP strips bonded to a masonry substrate

In this paper, the debonding phenomenon in FRP-strengthened masonry is numerically investigated. A 3D finite element model is developed to reproduce an experimental set-up of single-lap shear tests. Brick and mortar are modeled separately by two plastic-damage constitutive laws. Perfect adhesion between the FRP strip and masonry is assumed. Firstly, the numerical model is used to simulate experimental tests. A good agreement between the experimental and numerical results in terms of load-slip response is observed. Then, further finite element analyses are carried out to gain an insight on the effects of (i) the thickness and mechanical properties of the mortar joints and (ii) the width of the FRP strip on the debonding phenomenon.