Advanced FRCM Systems for Structural Strengthening and Seismic Retrofitting

FRCM (Fabric Reinforced Cementitious Matrix) structural strengthening systems combine high-performance long fibres with a stabilized inorganic matrix used as an adhesive, replacing the epoxy resins typically used in traditional FRP systems.

Ruregold has introduced a major innovation in the field of structural reinforcement by patenting several advanced FRCM strengthening systems specifically developed for structural strengthening and seismic retrofitting applications on existing buildings and infrastructures, including reinforced concrete and masonry structures.

Ruregold FRCM systems use two types of high-performance structural fibres: carbon fibre and PBO fibre (Polyparaphenylenebenzobisoxazole). Both synthetic materials offer exceptional mechanical properties and are designed to absorb stresses generated by overloads, seismic events, and exceptional structural actions. Compared to carbon fibres, PBO fibres provide approximately 20% higher tensile strength and 15% greater modulus of elasticity.

The specially formulated inorganic mortars are engineered to match each mesh reinforcement system, ensuring optimal bonding both to the structural fibres and to the substrate materials. This guarantees high reliability and long-term durability of the strengthening intervention.

Ruregold composite strengthening systems employ woven structural fibres with optimized geometries that increase versatility and improve stress distribution, even in the most complex loading conditions, including:

• combined axial and flexural stresses in columns;
• shear strengthening of beam-column joints;
• flexural and shear strengthening of beams;
• in-plane and out-of-plane strengthening actions.

Advantages of FRCM Strengthening Systems with Inorganic Matrix

The use of an inorganic matrix in externally bonded structural strengthening systems overcomes many limitations associated with epoxy resin-based FRP systems, particularly regarding safety, durability, reliability, and installation performance.

Main Benefits of FRCM Systems

• Application on damp substrates: hydraulic binders are not affected by moisture presence.
• Excellent fire behaviour: inorganic matrices are non-combustible, emit very little smoke, and do not release incandescent particles.
• High temperature resistance: inorganic binders maintain adhesion and mechanical performance even at elevated temperatures.
• Freeze-thaw durability: excellent resistance to thermal cycling.
• Water vapour permeability: prevents condensation and moisture entrapment, protecting wall finishes and decorations.
• Non-toxic materials: safe for installers and environmentally friendly, without requiring special handling procedures.
• Easy installation: premixed mortars are prepared simply by adding water and do not require highly specialized labour.
• High structural reliability: pseudo-ductile behaviour offers improved safety compared to organic matrices.
• Durability in humid environments: adhesion performance remains stable even at high relative humidity levels.
• Wide application temperature range: stable workability and curing performance between 41°F and 104°F (+5°C to +35°C).
• Reversibility: strengthening systems can be removed later if required.
• Fast application process: efficient “layer-on-layer” installation method reduces intervention times.

Why Choose FRCM Strengthening over Traditional FRP Systems
Compared to traditional FRP strengthening systems with epoxy resins, FRCM systems with inorganic matrix offer superior compatibility with existing masonry and concrete substrates, better vapour permeability, improved fire resistance, and greater long-term durability in challenging environmental conditions.

These characteristics make FRCM structural strengthening systems an ideal solution for:
• seismic retrofitting;
• reinforced concrete strengthening;
• masonry strengthening;
• historic building restoration;
• infrastructure rehabilitation;
• beam, column, and slab strengthening applications.