Computational analysis of fibre reinforced polymer-confined masonry columns

A steady growth in the application of fiber reinforced polymers (FRP) for strengthening of masonry structures against earthquake hazard and static overloading is therefore beneficial for the maintenance of the architectural cultural heritage. The aim of this paper is to present a practical modeling approach for the nonlinear finite element analysis (NLFEA) of FRP-confined masonry columns under concentric loading. A computational study using the finite element program LUSAS on the fracture behavior of concrete elements confined with CFRP jackets has been conducted by the application of Drucker-Prager criterion to the FRP-confined masonry columns tested by Krevaikas and Triatafillou (2005). Modeling aspects and detailed analysis results for square masonry columns are presented and discussed with a view toward assessing the capabilities of the structural modeling. © Civil-Comp Press, 2011.