A testing machine with load capacity of 100 kN was used with
displacement control at a rate of 0.1 mm/min in the first phase.
After the cracking, the speed was increased to 0.5 mm/min. Various
methods have been used to measure the strains in TRC and FRCM
[19]. Strain gauges are inadequate since provide only local information.
Extensometers are ideal to assess the alignment of the
specimen and to avoid possible out-of-plane bending moment.
The optimum set up would include four LVDTs placed on the opposite
sides of the specimen. Photogrammetry can be another refined