In-plane shear cyclic behavior of windowed masonry walls reinforced with textile reinforced mortars

The current experimental study is focused on the mechanical performance of masonry walls under in-plane cyclic shear forces. All specimens were fabricated with a central window, in which geometry considered recommendations Spanish structural seismic design code. Windows represent weak area structure, there are stress concentrations responsible for crack initiation. In order to improve strength and ductility, reinforcement Textile Reinforced Mortar (TRM) was used both sides wall. unreinforced reinforced has been discussed terms ductility gain, stiffness degradation energy dissipation capacity. tests comprised an initial vertical preload, cycles increasing amplitude. monitored by means traditional displacement transducers, digital image correlation. analysis images showed time evolution overall distribution. TRM effect could be observed as increase (maximum from 120 kN more than 300 kN), higher displacements (drift 9 35 mm), (the cumulative loss 2.7 12.7 kN·m). addition, reinforcements capable controlling initiation growth. widespread along mortar joints became localized cracks (from window’s corners mainly), growth direction not determined joints.