CRM system: full-section strengthening with composite reinforced mortar

RI-STRUTTURA, RI-STRUTTURA FORCE and H-PLANET are Fibre Net's CRM (Composite Reinforced Mortar) structural strengthening systems, using FRP meshes, corner elements and connectors combined with NHL lime or cement-based structural mortars.

The three lines

• RI-STRUTTURA (GFRP): meshes from long alkali-resistant glass fibres impregnated with thermosetting epoxy-vinylester resin. The core solution for seismic upgrading of masonry.
• RI-STRUTTURA FORCE: new preformed GFRP meshes developed for high mechanical performance.
• H-PLANET (CFRP): meshes, corner elements and connectors in carbon fibre for applications requiring high performance at minimal thickness — also suitable for deteriorated concrete.

Applications

• Masonry walls: increased capacity and ductility in shear and in-plane/out-of-plane bending-compression, with limited stiffness increase; can be applied on a single face.
• Arches and vaults: a thin overlay of low-modulus mortar (preferably lime-based) with preformed FRP mesh, at intrados and/or extrados.
• Floors: a thin composite slab connected to the floor system and vertical elements, for diaphragm action and reduced deformations.
• Columns and piers: confinement with continuous perimeter application, increasing strength and ductility.
• Reinforced masonry ring beams: meshes embedded in horizontal mortar joints with vertical FRP dowel bars — a top restraint against out-of-plane collapse.
• Bridge piers and tunnels: repair with restraining mesh anchored to the substrate, embedded in repair mortars or shotcrete.

Advantages

• Uniform, distributed improvement of mechanical performance with an intervention thickness of about 3 cm.
• Corrosion-free reinforcement — long-term effectiveness without maintenance.
• Radio-transparent, non-magnetic GFRP meshes suitable for special infrastructure.
• Compatibility with historic substrates via NHL mortars — breathability and chemical compatibility.
• Reversibility for buildings under conservation constraints.
• Lightweight, easy-to-handle components — fast installation and lower site costs.

Certification and design

CRM systems are assessed to EAD 340392-00-0104 (CRM system for strengthening concrete and masonry structures) and the Italian guidelines for preformed FRP mesh systems (2019). Design follows the Italian NTC 2018 technical standards and the Eurocodes, with calculation software and standard DWG drawings available to the designer.

Related systems

For thinner interventions without section increase see the FRCM C-MATRIX system; for high-demand reinforced concrete elements the FRP BETONTEX system.