Strengthening column capitals in historical buildings

In this study, the functionality of different reinforcement methods for stone column capitals in historical buildings was investigated experimentally on different models. In this context, the damages that occurred in the column capitals and the sources of these damages were examined. What types of reinforcement methods can be used for these damages were examined and some models were proposed for different types of reinforcement methods. A total of forty-two stone samples with the same characteristics, three for each model, were produced in the dimensions determined in the quarry. Three of these samples were considered as reference samples, while the others were determined as samples of different models to which the strengthening methods would be applied. In total, thirteen models were considered and three samples were tested for each model. In general, different FRP strip applications, post-tensioning of different numbers of steel bars in the column capital sample and different metal strapping samples were used as the strengthening method. In addition, some physical properties of Tomarza stone used in experimental studies were determined. As a result, the load carriying capacities obtained as a result of the experiment for each model were compared. It has been determined that the metal strapping method, which is frequently used in the reinforcement of column capitals today, remains within certain limits. It has been determined that the application of FRP strip with sufficient thickness significantly increases the capacity of the column capitals.