Behavioral trends of RC beams strengthened with externally bonded FRP

The performance of conventionally reinforced concrete (RC) beams strengthen ed in flexure with externally bonded fiber-reinforced polymers (EB-FRP) was studied by compiling and analyzing an experimental database. A total of 12 7 specimens from 23 separate studies were included in the database. A profi le of specimens in the database is given, followed by an analysis of trends in failure mode, strength gain, and deformability. Failure by debonding of FRP was prevalent among specimens in the database. One-third of the specim ens with external reinforcement added showed strength increases of 50% or m ore in combination with considerable deflection capacity. It was clear from the experimental studies that the procedures followed were most representa tive of member strengthening rather than repair. Most of the specimens in t he database were not subjected to sustained loading or damage causing loss of original capacity before external reinforcement was added. To assess the real potential of using FRP for expedient and economical field repair and strengthening of RC members, it was concluded that future research on the a pplication of FRP to RC members should focus on conditions that are similar to what is observed in the field, including the effects of sustained load during repair/strengthening as well as corrosion- and load-induced damage.