Strengthening reinforced concrete beams using Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer (GFRP) composites

Abstract

Deterioration in reinforced concrete structures is a major issue faced by the infrastructures and bridge industries all over the world. One of the suitable solutions is to modify and to improve the performance of the structure by introducing a new technique called “Strengthening”. It is not only cost effective but also helps in improving the service life of structures. To strengthen deficient RC structures, previously steel plates was used as external reinforcement but in last fifteen years, FRP plates have been used to replace steel because of their superior properties. The present study describes the flexural and shear strengthening of rectangular RC beams using glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP). In total, 12 no. of beams were cast and divided into 2 groups varying in steel reinforcement. One beam in each group, designated as control beam. Rest beams were strengthened in different orientations using GFRP sheets. Anchorage plate has been used to prevent premature debonding failure. The beams were tested under symmetrical four-point static loading system. A theoretical comparison was done to support the experimental results.