Innovative Design of FRP Combined with Concrete: Short-Term Behavior

Abstract

The study presents the mechanics associated with the short-term behavior of glass-fiber reinforced-plastic (GFRP) box beams that include a layer of concrete and a carbon-fiber–reinforced-plastic laminate (CFRP) in the compression and the tension zone, respectively. This innovative concept results in cost-effective composite members with pseudoductile characteristics and high stiffness and strength properties. It can be thought of as a better way of producing composite structural members for simply supported spans, through an automated manufacturing technique such as pultrusion. The analytical results are verified by a series of bending tests on large-scale specimens and by the finite-element technique. The agreement between experiments and analysis was found quite satisfactory. A preliminary design procedure for the hybrid members is also presented, based on a complete set of stiffness, strength (flexural strength, web shear failure by either crushing or buckling, lateral instability), and ductility design requirements.