A tensegrity approach to the optimal reinforcement of masonry domes and vaults through fiber-reinforced composite materials. (15th December 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Fraternali, F.; Carpentieri, G.; Modano, M.; Fabbrocino, F.; Skelton, R.E.
• Is Part Of: Composite structures. Volume 134(2016)
• Page Start: 247
• Page End: 254
• Publication Date: 2015-12-15
• Subjects: Masonry -- Tensegrity -- Topology optimization -- Minimal mass -- Vaults -- Domes; Composite construction -- Periodicals; Composites -- Périodiques; 624.18
• DOI: 10.1016/j.compstruct.2015.08.087
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0263-8223

Abstract

Abstract: We present a tensegrity approach to the strengthening of masonry vaults and domes performed by bonding grids of fiber reinforced composites to the masonry substrate. A topology optimization of such a reinforcement technique is formulated, on accounting for a tensegrity model of the reinforced structure; a minimal mass design strategy; different yield strengths of the masonry struts and tensile composite reinforcements; and multiple loading conditions. We show that the given optimization strategy can be profitably employed to rationally design fiber-reinforced composite material reinforcements of existing or new masonry vaults and domes, making use of the safe theorem of limit analysis. A wide collection of numerical examples dealing with real-life masonry domes and vaults highlight the technical potential of the proposed approach.