ABSTRACT
A research has started aiming at evaluating the influence of aggressive environmental conditions on the bond between various composites and masonry substrates already decayed. A series of on-site experimental tests was carried out on full-scale masonry models, built in open air in a polluted area and artificially exposed since years to capillary rise of a solution of water and salt, so to create salt crystallization cycles. Composite materials are widely used in civil engineering for strengthening purposes, especially in seismic areas, where several existing buildings need structural retrofitting. Nevertheless, some conditions may cause damaging on their applications: moisture, thermal effects, creep, fatigue, ultraviolet radiation, and fire. The possible influence of moisture presence and salt crystallization cycles on the various composites was investigated by means of pull-off tests, whose first results are herein presented. The investigation aims at finding the better compromise between good strength reinforcement and minor damage on the historical masonry substrates, in case of reinforcement failure.
