Evaluation of the Structural Performance of Fracture in Engineering Materials with Lightweight Ceramic Fibers for Reinforcement of Structural Elements

This research project focuses on addressing the structural vulnerability of buildings, exacerbated by natural disasters such as earthquakes and geotechnical issues, particularly within the Consortium of Parochial Boards of Gualaceo. The main problem is the degradation of strength and stiffness in conventional structural elements (reinforced concrete, adobe) due to failures in design, construction, or seismic events, endangering human life and heritage. The central hypothesis is that incorporating lightweight ceramic fibers (FRP) as reinforcement will increase the fracture toughness of the resulting structural system. The methodology combines advanced analysis using numerical simulation with finite element software and a rigorous experimental campaign, including fracture toughness testing in Mode II and mixed mode, developed in collaboration with the Universitat de Girona. The goal is to propose an economically viable structural reinforcement solution using FRP technology compared to demolition and reconstruction. Expected outcomes include the generation of two scientific articles indexed in Scopus and the transfer of knowledge to the academic community and the beneficiary parochial entities, promoting sustainable structural rehabilitation.<br/><br/><b>Goal</b>: <br/>To evaluate the structural fracture performance of engineering materials reinforced with lightweight ceramic fibers to enhance the toughness and strength of structural elements.<br/><br/><b>Research lines</b>: <br/>Advanced analysis of structures through numerical simulation with commercial finite element software of conventional structural systems