RETROFITTING OF RC BEAMS USING FRP (FIBER REINFORCED POLYMER) AND FERROCEMENT LAMINATES

Abstract

Now a days it is common observation that structures are unable to give service as much as they are expected as per design. This is because of deterioration of the concrete and reinforcements caused by various environmental factors or due to an increase in applied loads. As a result of structural rehabilitation needs, strengthening and retrofitting of concrete structural parts becomes the major research area for the researchers. The Retrofitting can be used as a cost-effective alternative to the replacement of these structures and is often the only feasible solution. The main objectives of investigation are to study the structural behavior of reinforced concrete beams strengthened with different Fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) mainly Glass Fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP) and Carbon Fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) and ferrocement laminates. The objective was achieved by casting and testing of unstrengthened and strengthened beam specimens in flexural and shear, respectively using FRP wrap configration and ferrous cement laminates. The experimental results are analysed and discussed in the light of load deformation behavior and load enhancement characteristics. Worldwide, a great deal of research is currently being conducted concerning the use of fiber reinforced plastics wrap, laminates and sheets in the repair and strengthening of reinforced concrete members. The experimental results of the present investigation suggests that Fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) application is a very effective way to repair and strength structures that have become structurally weak over their life span. FRP repair systems provide an economically viable alternative to traditional repair systems and materials.