Experimental and Theoretical Study on Anchorage Loss of Prestressed CFRP-Reinforced Concrete Beams

Abstract

To investigate the anchorage loss mechanism of externally prestressed CFRP tendons in concrete beams, this study introduces a novel theoretical calculation system (TCS) developed through both the finite element method (FEM) and experimental validation. Firstly, the FEM and the proposed TCS were employed based on the mechanism of anchorage loss to compute the deformation of each part of the prestressed tendon–main beam connection system, ensuring result accuracy through mutual validation. Subsequently, field tests, designed according to FEM guidelines, measured the anchorage loss in externally prestressed CFRP tendons, with long-term monitoring included. Finally, experimental data were then used to refine the TCS. The results indicate that deformation at the connecting screw and the front end of the steel reaction frame constitutes approximately 95% of the total deformation, with theoretical calculations aligning closely with the FEM results. The field tests revealed that the anchorage loss of a 12 m long CFRP tendon under 950 MPa prestress accounted for about 35% of the total prestress loss. The discrepancy in deformation compared with the theoretical results was due to a gap of approximately 0.4 mm between the two threaded connections, which can be minimized by improving construction techniques. After correction, the calculation error was reduced to about 5%. Control variable studies confirmed that anchorage loss is influenced by the prestress level, the dimensions of the steel reaction frame front end, the connecting screw length, and the number of thread gaps. This study provides a comprehensive approach for accurately predicting and mitigating anchorage loss in externally prestressed CFRP tendons, with significant implications for future engineering applications.