VSL's experience with post-tensioned masonry

The paper presents a new post-tensioning system for masonry structures which has been introduced in Switzerland in 1988. Since then different structures have been post-tensioned with the system. After a brief description of the system a summary of references is given. Design basis and typical assumptions used for the design of these structures are discussed. Select projects and details are presented. The paper also describes innovative methods for the strengthening of lateral load resisting frames and walls of structures using the post-tensioning technique. The examples include small houses with small monostrand tendons up to large structures using multistrand tendons.