Rehabilitation of RC Beams with Web Openings Using Alkali-Activated Fiber-Reinforced U-Jacket

Abstract

The structural performance of a damaged web opened beam repaired and strengthened by U-shaped jacketing with fiber-reinforced geopolymer concrete (FRGC) is evaluated. Reinforced concrete (RC) beams with openings in the flexure (BMS) and shear (BSS) are initially tested to their ultimate loading. The damaged beams are repaired using geopolymer mortar (GM), followed by strengthening using three-sided FRGC jackets. To assess the efficiency of the noble strengthening technique, portland-based cement mortar (PCM) and fiber-reinforced cement concrete are also used as an alternative jacketing agent. The test results indicate that FRGC material can effectively restore the structure to its functional use at the earliest possible time. The BMS-type jacketed beam exhibits improved stiffness with enhanced load carrying capacity 1.3 times higher than the original beam. However, the effect of FRGC jacketing is found to be more effective in enhancing the load carrying capacity of the BSS-type by 1.75 times higher than the original specimen. All jacketed specimens exhibit deflection hardening behavior with improved deformation capacity leading to improved ductility.