Investigating the Flexural Properties of Reinforced Concrete T-Beams Strengthened with High-Strength Steel Wire Mesh and Polyurethane Cement

Abstract

The incorporation of high-strength steel wire mesh and polyurethane cement (HSSWM–PUC) has been identified as an effective approach for enhancing existing reinforced structures. This study comprehensively examined the flexural performance of reinforced concrete (RC) T-beams fortified with HSSWM–PUC composite material, proposing an accurate formula to calculate flexural capacity. This formula took into account various factors such as the strengthening ratio of HSSWM, laminate thickness, the type of bonding anchorage material, the presence of end anchorage, and the degree of initial damage. Flexural tests were conducted on one contrast beam and six reinforced beams within the scope of this research. Subsequent analyses revealed that the application of HSSWM–PUC significantly elevates the flexural capacity of both damaged and undamaged beams. This indicates that the load-bearing capacity correspondingly improves as the PUC thickness increases. With an increase in PUC thickness from 20 to 30 mm, the reinforced beam showed a 34% improvement in ultimate load and a 31.7% increase in yield load. Compared under similar parameters, beams strengthened with HSSWM–PUC showed a 43% higher cracking load than HSSWM–PM, especially with eight longitudinal high-strength steel wire ropes and a 20-mm-thick PUC layer. Additionally, using a U-shaped anchorage at the end provided a 20% advantage. A further merit of the HSSWM–PUC approach lies in its capability to both restrain the formation of concrete cracks and retard the progression of such defects, thereby fortifying the structural integrity. The observed failure mode was predominantly flexural, distinctly avoiding the common peeling failure witnessed between strengthening laminates and concrete. This suggests that HSSWM–PUC stands as a credible solution for amplifying the durability and lifespan of RC structures.