Concrete Slabs Reinforced with FRP Grids. I: One-Way Bending

Abstract

Currently, considerable interest exists in the use of fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) reinforcement for concrete structures. Due to the generally lower modulus of elasticity of FRP in comparison with steel and the linear behavior of FRP, certain aspects of the structural behavior of RC members reinforced with FRP may be substantially different from similar elements reinforced with steel reinforcement. In this two-part paper the use of different types of FRP grid reinforcement for concrete slabs is investigated, presenting detailed experimental and analytical work. In the first part, the structural behavior in one-way bending is considered. This paper shows which structural measures are needed to ensure acceptable serviceability behavior. The presented analysis and discussion of test results covers the ultimate state and the ultimate limit state for bending, serviceability limit states, ductility, deformability, and ultimate to service load ratio.