Static and Fatigue Performance of RC Beams Strengthened with CFRP Laminates

Abstract

The paper presents the results of a study involving the static and fatigue performance of reinforced concrete beams strengthened with externally bonded carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) sheets. The main parameters in the static test study were the concrete compressive strength, the number of CFRP laminates, and the placement of CFRP reinforcement. The static test program shows that the application of CFRP to reinforced concrete beams results in increased strength and enhanced performance. Accelerated fatigue testing is performed on several specimens receiving various amounts of the CFRP lamination system, including one member that is fatigued for over half the expected fatigue life, then rehabilitated with the CFRP, and fatigued again until failure. Comparisons are made for the standard section and equivalent sections with two and three layers of CFRP involving the improvements in fatigue behavior, stiffness, and capacity. The results from the fatigue study indicate that fatigue life of reinforced concrete beams can be significantly extended through the use of externally bonded CFRP laminates.