ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the experimental behavior of masonry structures strengthened with mortar-based composite reinforced with glass fiber grid. It explores the effectiveness of the adopted strengthening method for two locations of concentrated vertical load applied to the extrados of the vaults, and the influence of the load location on the failure mechanism. The use of externally bonded composites with inorganic matrices has become a popular technique for strengthening historic masonry structures. Additionally, a numerical analysis of non-strengthened vaults using software based on the rigid block method was performed for comparison purposes. The strengthening system used in the research presented was confirmed as an effective strengthening solution for masonry vaults. An alkali-resistant coated glass fiber grid embedded in a cement-based mortar matrix was adopted. The results of the presented tests and analysis show that the location of the concentrated load influenced the load bearing capacity and failure mechanism of the masonry vault, both with and without strengthening.
