Seismic Retrofit of Joints of a Full-Scale 3D Reinforced Concrete Frame with FRP Composites

Abstract

Postearthquake reconnaissance studies show that the beam-column joints of substandard reinforced concrete buildings (particularly the corner joints) may fail to resist the demanded forces and deformations under severe seismic actions. In this study, the effectiveness of carbon fiber–reinforced polymer (FRP) composites for retrofitting beam-column joints is demonstrated through testing of four full-scale three-dimensional reinforced concrete frames that are representative of substandard reinforced concrete buildings. Additionally, analytical seismic performance predictions made using available seismic assessment and retrofit guidelines are compared with the test results.