Effects of Various Parameters on CFRP Strengthening of Infilled RC Frames

Abstract

The application of carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) layers on existing hollow clay tile infill walls with proper anchorage has already been established as an alternative seismic rehabilitation method for reinforced concrete frames. This method has been investigated considering some major aspects during the last decade. Yet, the possible effects of some other parameters should be addressed. A numerical model which had been generated for reinforced concrete frames strengthened with the proposed methodology and verified by the experimental results was utilized for such a study. The parameters that are considered in this study are the flexural rigidities of beams and columns, infill wall thickness, width of the CFRP fabrics, and aspect ratio of infill walls. The change in the global frame response attained by CFRP strengthening with respect to each parameter is indicated. The results emphasize that there is a considerable effect from infill wall thickness and diagonal CFRP width on the overall enhancement provided by the applied strengthening. In addition, there seems to be a correlation between these two parameters. As a result of regression analysis of the results, the relationships between lateral load capacity/initial stiffness enhancements, infill wall thickness, and CFRP width are derived.