Conference Topics

Fiber Reinforced Cementitious Matrix (FRCM) systems have proven to be an effective solution for the structural strengthening of existing masonry structures, considering that a significant improvement can be obtained in the seismic behavior when they are applied on masonry panels, both in terms of load bearing and displacement capacity. In recent years, an increased attention has been devoted to the durability of these materials, especially when they are subjected to aggressive environments. Indeed, guidelines for the qualification of FRCM systems prescribe the execution of tests for the mechanical characterization after exposure to different environmental conditions, such as freeze/thaw cycles, saline and alkaline environments, and to medium and high temperatures. At the same time, the global effort toward a more circular and sustainable construction industry, requires also that composite materials become more aligned and compatible with the environmental issues, allowing the introduction of more sustainable materials (e.g., different types of fibers, coating, etc.), as a green alternative to more traditional ones.
The special session aims at sharing knowledge and experience among researchers about, but not limited to, the following topics:
- experimental procedures for the mechanical characterization of FRCM systems;
- experimental campaigns and testing protocols to study the durability of FRCM systems;
- experimental tests on innovative materials (natural fibers, recycled materials, etc…);
- numerical simulations and analytical models in support of experimental tests;
- statistical analyses of datasets to provide the basis for the definition of design properties.

The use of composite materials in the conservation of architectural heritage has attracted considerable attention for its ability to improve structural resilience. After more than a quarter of a century of applying these materials to historic buildings, it is now possible to start evaluating their performance over time and begin to assess their long-term impact.
The mini-symposium aims to discuss case studies that tested the application of composite materials to highlight the practical, theoretical and technical complexities of integrating such materials into the strengthening of historic structures. Examples may address issues such as material compatibility, long-term performance, reversibility and aesthetic impact, as well as managing regulatory and site constraints and integrating advanced technologies.
Specific projects will showcase both successes and setbacks, providing valuable lessons on how composites interact with traditional materials such as masonry, stone and timber under different environmental and structural conditions to gain a deeper understanding of the practical implications of using composites, from initial design to long-term monitoring.
The aim of the discussion is to foster a dialogue that bridges the gap between theory and practice, providing actionable insights for future applications and encouraging the development of best practices that balance innovation with the preservation of cultural authenticity.

MuRiCo8 - MS04 - Advances in the investigation of bond-dominated problems of organic and inorganic composites applied to masonry structures
Tommaso D’ANTINO (Politecnico di Milano, Italy), Francesco FOCACCI (University eCampus, Italy), Christian CARLONI (Case Western Reserve University, United States)
When fiber-reinforced composites are employed as internal or externally bonded reinforcement of masonry members, the bond between the composite and substrate or within the composite itself generally controls the effectiveness of the system. A deep knowledge of the stress-transfer mechanism is fundamental for understating the behavior of the structural element and formulate reliable design models. This Mini Symposium is focused on the study of new approaches (experimental, analytical, and numerical) on the role of bond in bond-dominated problems of external and internal composite reinforcement. Topics of particular interest for this Mini Symposium are, although not limited to: 1) meso-scale and micro-scale numerical models; 2) analytical models that are advancements or improvements with respect to the Mode-II fracture mechanics approach; 3) new experimental results and innovative testing procedures. Composites that are of particular interest in this Mini Symposium are fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP), including bars for repointing and used as anchors for externally bonded reinforcement, fiber-reinforced cementitious matrix (FRCM), textile reinforced mortar (TRM), steel reinforced grout (SRG), and composite reinforced mortar (CRM) systems. The Mini Symposium aims at contributing to the advancement of knowledge on the role of bond on the load-carrying capacity of masonry members reinforced with composites and on the role of bond-related parameters in design models. 

MuRiCo8 - MS05 - New Frontiers in sustainable vegetal and mineral composite materials: experimental insights and advanced modelling
Marco Corradi (University of Huddersfield, UK), Giulia Misseri (University of Florence, Italy), Daniel V Oliveira (University of Minho, Portugal), Francesca Roscini (Cusano University, Italy)
As climate change concerns rise and the demand for energy-efficient solutions grows, the need for sustainable construction and retrofitting materials and technologies has become more urgent. While composite materials are commonly used in civil infrastructure, their reliance on non-renewable resources presents a major challenge to achieving global carbon neutrality and promoting eco-friendly solutions, especially in developing countries.

Over the last decades, greater attention has been enlarged to the sustainable management of existing structures, aiming to enhance resilience against natural hazard events and extend service life. The use of composite materials has gained importance, particularly in the strengthening of masonry structures, offering an excellent retrofitting solution for heritage buildings. Their compatibility with masonry substrates, due to vapor permeability and sustainability benefits from lime-based matrices, has made them ideal for reversible interventions.

This MS focuses on the innovative use of bio-based composite materials that comprise vegetal fibres such as flax, hemp, bamboo, and jute, alongside mineral fibres like basalt, embedded in an inorganic lime-based mortar matrix. These composite systems offer a more sustainable and cost-effective alternative to conventional solutions, whose high strength and stiffness may not be fully used in masonry structures and whose costs can be prohibitive, particularly in developing countries.

This MS explores these new challenges, highlighting the latest experimental advancements and cutting-edge modelling techniques. Case study applications are also welcome to provide practical examples.
The following key areas will be considered:

• Performance and durability characterization: discussions will cover advancements in examining mechanical properties, durability, and sustainability, including innovative solutions like coatings for fibre protection.
• Advanced modelling and data analysis: topics will include finite element analysis (FEA), multi-physics simulations, and machine learning to predict system behaviour and optimize design.
• Case studies: real-world applications will be presented to showcase the resilience and sustainability of TRM systems.

Finally, the full potential of these systems in civil engineering applications will be showcased, highlighting their advantages and drawbacks through this MS to ensure reliable, durable, and eco-friendly solutions for rehabilitating masonry structures.

MuRiCo8 - MS06 – Vibration-Based Assessment, SHM and NDT of Masonry Structures: advances and applications
Michele Betti (Università degli Studi di Firenze, Italy), Francesco Clementi (Università Politecnica delle Marche, Italy), Salvador Ivorra (Universitat d’Alacant, Spain), Nuno Mendes (University of Minho, Portugal)

Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) and Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) are strategic procedures for the non-invasive assessment of the health state of Existing Masonry Structures (EMSs) and Infrastructures (EMIs). These structures, being designed without contemporary criteria, when subjected to medium-to-strong exceptional load conditions can exhibit significant structural and non-structural damage, and even collapse.
In this context, the mini-symposium would focus the attention on all the opportunities of SHM and NDT for the conservation and assessment of masonry buildings, including the definition of adequate remedial measures. The mini-symposium is intended to attract scholars, researchers and stakeholders dealing with monitoring techniques, computational methods for damage identification, open research issues and case studies.
Topics to be covered, but not limited to, are: vibration-based post-earthquake and seismic assessment; vibration-based tuning of FE model; multi-disciplinary strategies of preventive conservation and SHM (involving vibration testing and/or continuous monitoring); design, implementation and management of dynamic monitoring systems; effects of environmental and operational variability on modal parameters; vibration-based SHM strategies under changing environment and/or operational conditions.