Published Paper Details:

Fiber reinforced polymers (FRPs) are high tensile continuous fibers oriented in a desired direction in a special resin matrix. They are used as a confining reinforcement, externally bonded to the reinforced concrete (RC) beams to enhance their structural behavior. They enhance the ductility, shear and flexural capacities of the confined member. This project presents an experimental and analytical study on RC beams with external flexure strengthening by hybrid FRP sheets, which is a combination of Carbon FRP(CFRP) and Glass FRP (GFRP). The usage of hybrid FRPs provide both strength and ductility to the RC beam. The effect of the width of strengthening arrangements on the behavior of RC beams is investigated using two-point loading test. The strengthening effect of the FRP layers are interpreted using load-deflection pattern, ductility and the ultimate strength of the RC beams. The results are then compared with that of a conventional non-retrofitted specimen and the enhancement in the structural behavior of the specimen are presented. The analytical study involves finite element modelling using ABAQUS 6.14 and comparison of the results. Strengthening using hybrid FRPs is expected to enhance the life of the structure and thus cut down construction costs.