A GA-based model updating procedure for the numerical simulation of FRCM-to-masonry bond

The characterization of the constitutive mechanical behaviour of Fabric Reinforced Cementitious Composites (FRCM) is a widely discussed topic in the scientific community. Several research studies pointed out the difficulties in assessing reliable constitutive laws able to reproduce the local phenomena inner in the mechanics of FRCM materials. This paper presents the proposal of a model updating procedure based on a Genetic Algorithm (GA), able to obtain the parameters to be used for a simplified numerical modelling of the fabric-to-matrix interface. The procedure is applied to a truss-based Finite Element (FE) model, and it aims to minimize the difference between the simulations and the experimental results. The calibration procedure is performed against a large experimental database of bond tests in FRCM-to-masonry assemblies, allowing to express the model parameters as a function of geometrical and mechanical characteristics of the FRCM.