The paper studies the dynamic behavior of autoclave aerated concrete (AAC)
masonry walls externally strengthened with composite materials and subjected
to in-plane dynamic loads. The study combines experimental, analytical
and numerical methodologies, presents the results of two types of dynamic
tests, and uses them for comparison with a finite element approach that is
based on specially tailored high-order finite elements. The first dynamic
test focuses on the natural frequencies and vibration modes of the patched
wall. The second set of tests focuses on the dynamic response of the wall to
in-plane base excitation. The analysis uses the specially tailored finite elements,
combines them with conventional elements, and compares the results with the
experiments. The discussion supports the validation of the model and throws
light on a range of phenomena that characterize the dynamic behavior of
the strengthened wall. These phenomena range from the global in-plane
to out-of-plane coupling to the localized effects at the strengthened layer
level.