On the Lateral Capacity of Reinforced Masonry Members Using Combined Retrofitting Methods

Historic walls were designed in the past to withstand vertical compressive loads. However, during seismic events, walls withstand lateral loads and their response is usually unsatisfactory. Reinforcement is often needed and several retrofitting methods have been proposed in the last decades. This paper analyses and compares the strength results of several experimental campaigns, recently carried out by the authors, with the specifications and mechanical properties suggested by the new (2018) Italian Seismic Code. Two retrofitting methods are considered: grout injections, alone, and in combination with jacketing. The effect of combined retrofitting methods was also investigated in this paper with the aim at studying the limitations of the actual Italian Building Code for interventions on listed buildings. Shear tests were carried out on-site and the effectiveness of the two retrofitting methods was discussed.