Extension of the Modified Compression Field Theory for FRP Reinforced Masonry Elements

Abstract Modified Compression Field Theory (MCFT) is recognized as a non-linear procedure in the analysis of reinforced concrete structures, which was introduced for calculating the response of reinforced concrete elements subjected to shear. This analysis is based on the stress-strain relation of concrete and reinforcement, by means of an iterative method called the secant stiffness. This study implements the MCFT through an innovative approach based on the stress-strain relation of brick and fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) composite to analyze the in-plane behavior of FRP- reinforced masonry buildings. Further, failure mechanism and FRP debonding are considered. The analysis is performed through a nonlinear finite element program. To this end, non-linear formulations are conducted following by way of the nonlinear iterative secant stiffness procedure. The accuracy of the proposed model are validated is confirmed against the experimental findings available in the literature.