FRCM structural reinforcement system

Structural reinforcement systems with carbon fiber meshes, AR glass, basalt, preformed GFRP and UHTSS steel fabrics in inorganic matrices. FRCM-CRM SYSTEMS are structural plasters reinforced with cementitious binders and natural hydraulic lime and meshes in preformed RG NET BA, in GFRP AR CRM, carbon fiber C-NET, AR glass G-NET, basalt B-NET (FRCM SYSTEM), preformed GFRP meshes in AR glass RG NET BA (CRM SYSTEM), and UHTSS ultra-high-strength steel fabrics STEEL NET G-I304 (SRG) galvanized and stainless steel.

The technology is versatile, lightweight, and low-thickness, enabling structural strengthening in general and particularly of masonry, Cultural Heritage assets, and historic-artistic buildings. This technique, introduced in the national market in recent years, allows for a general improvement of the mechanical properties of structures, especially when deteriorated and subjected to seismic actions, through reinforcement with carbon, AR glass, basalt fibers, and steel in compatible, reversible, and breathable inorganic matrices.

The system can be applied to masonry panels, curtain walls, masonry columns, brick and natural stone vaults, lath-and-plaster structures, which present varying degrees of deterioration and damage, and which need to be made safe and seismically upgraded using a minimally invasive technology with reduced thickness and compatible with different requirements of structural consolidation and preservation of historic buildings.

STEEL NET G-I304 fabric in UHTSS steel.

Studies, experimental tests, and certifications by our group have been and are still being carried out at national and international level, demonstrating the validity of these systems for their intended applications. FRCM and CRM systems are certified with CVT by CSLP STC in accordance with qualification guidelines.

Main applications

• Increase in strength of load-bearing masonry panels, columns, arches, and masonry vaults
• Safety and anti-overturning reinforcement of infill panels and load-bearing masonry panels subjected to seismic action
• Anti-sagging reinforcement of floors
• Flexural and shear strengthening of masonry panels
• Confinement of structural elements
• Improvement against external actions perpendicular to the panel plane
• Connections of elements cooperating under external actions, also by means of prestressing of steel fabrics
• Reinforcement of concrete and reinforced concrete elements such as beams, columns, floors, retaining walls, and vaulted surfaces (tunnels)