Effect of Temperature on Bond Behavior of Externally Bonded FRP Laminates with Mechanical End Anchorage

Abstract

The use of mechanical anchorage systems can delay or prevent premature failure of RC structures with externally bonded fiber-reinforced polymer (EB-FRP) laminates. This work reports the results of an experimental program aimed at studying the bond behavior of a metallic anchorage plate, typically used for prestressed EB-FRP systems. The overall experimental program comprised 17 concrete prisms with carbon fiber–reinforced polymer (CFRP) laminates externally bonded to the concrete with mechanical anchorage at the end and to which different levels of normal stress were applied. Direct shear tests were carried out using two configurations: (1) steady-state tests, in which the laminate was pulled out from the block with increasing force and at constant temperature (20°C, 60°C, and 80°C); and (2) transient tests, in which the laminate was pulled out with constant force (0.36%, 0.45% and 0.54% of strain) and the temperature was gradually increased. Experimental results showed that the ultimate capacity of the mechanical anchorage can decrease by 44%–59% depending on the temperature and level of normal stress.