Experimental application of digital image correlation for the tensile characterization of basalt FRCM composites

Composites made ith inorganic matrix, namely fabric reinforced cementitious mortar (FRCM) composites are becoming widespread as strengthening materials for existing masonry structures. These composites are made of a dry grid of fibres embedded in an inorganic matrix. FRCMs can be considered a valid alternative to traditional organic composites such as fibre reinforced polymers (FRPs) because of their better compatibility with the masonry support. This work presents an experimental study for the tensile characterization of a basalt fabric reinforced cementitious mortar (BFRCM) composite. Tensile tests were carried out on coupons reinforced with one, two or three layers of grid to investigate the influence of the reinforcement on the load–strain and stress–strain response of the composite. The basalt grid and cementitious mortar matrix were also tested in order to compare the mechanical properties of the constituent materials to the response of the composite. The digital image correlation (DIC) technique was used to check in-plane and out-of-plane bending effect, to measure the crack opening and to analyse the crack pattern evolution and failure modes.