Behavior of CFRPC strengthened reinforced concrete beams with varying degrees of strengthening

This paper summarizes the results of experimental and analytical studies on the flexural strengthening of reinforced concrete beams by the external bo nding of high-strength, light-weight carbon fiber reinforced polymer compos ite (CFRPC) laminates to the tension face of the beam. Four sets of beams, three with different amounts of CFRPC reinforcement by changing the width o f CFRPC laminate, and one without CFRPC were tested in four-point bending o ver a span of 900 mm. The tests were carried out under displacement control . At least one beam in a set was extensively instrumented to monitor strain s and deflections over the entire range of loading till the failure of the beam. The increase in strength and stiffness provided by the bonded laminat e was assessed by varying the width of laminate. The results indicate that the flexural strength of beams was significantly increased as the width of laminate increased. Theoretical analysis using a computer program based on strain compatibility is presented to predict the ultimate strength and mome nt-deflection behavior of the beams. The comparison of the experimental res ults with theoretical values is also presented, along with an investigation of the beam failure modes. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reser ved.