Strengthening of Masonry Walls Using Jute Fiber: Merging Structural and Thermal Upgrading/Retrofitting

In the past five decades, man-made and synthetic fibers have dominated the market and have been used to strengthen masonry structures. This study explores the feasibility of using natural fibers, specifically jute fiber-based materials, to improve masonry walls' structural and thermal performance through integrated upgrading/retrofitting. It thoroughly examines the application of jute nets (with mesh dimensions of 2.5 cm × 1.25 cm), jute fiber diatons, and jute fiber-reinforced composite mortar (containing 1% jute fiber by dry mortar weight) in masonry strengthening. The research assesses the impact of these materials on both the structural integrity and thermal efficiency of upgraded masonry walls. Remarkably, the use of Natural Fiber Textile Reinforced Mortar (NFTRM) led to an increase of more than 500% in the walls' load-bearing capacity and improved insulation by 36%. Additionally, the study incorporates detailed crack pattern analysis under in-plane cyclic loading using advanced DIC techniques. Therefore, integrated upgrading/retrofitting has been demonstrated to be an ideal solution against seismic action while enhancing the energy efficiency of a building.