Lander Vasseur

Analytical study of a 2-span reinforced concrete beam strengthened with fibre reinforced polymer

The structural behaviour of reinforced concrete beams strengthened in flexure with externally bonded FRP (Fibre Reinforced Polymer) reinforcement has been extensively investigated with respect to isostatic beams. However, limited information is available on the behaviour of continuous beams, strengthened with composite reinforcement [1]. For flexural strengthening of a 2-span continuous beam the FRP can be applied above the middle support, at the two field spans or at both locations. Through an analytical study the non-linear behaviour of the beam is investigated. It is verified in which degree moment redistribution still is present when applying this strengthening technique.

External Strengthening of Continuous RC Beams with CFRP

The structural behaviour of reinforced beams strengthened in flexure with externally bonded FRP (Fibre Reinforced Polymer) reinforcement has been extensively investigated with respect to isostatic beams. Design methods are given in guidelines and standards, and failure modes are described. However, limited information is available on the behaviour of continuous beams, strengthened with composite reinforcement. For flexural strengthening of a 2-span continuous beam, the FRP reinforcement can be applied on top of the central support, at the bottom-side of the two spans or at both locations. By means of an analytical study, the non-linear behaviour of this type of beam is investigated. The failure modes are studied and it is verified to which degree moment redistribution is still present when applying this strengthening technique which makes use of a linear elastic polymeric material.