Shear Performance of FRP Reinforced Concrete Beams

Abstract

The paper deals with shear resistance of RC beams reinforced with fibre reinforced polymer reinforcement. The experimental programme presented here is part of an extensive research activity focused on comparing the development of shear carrying mechanisms in concrete beams reinforced with either steel or FRP reinforcement. Two sets of beams with equivalent geometrical characteristics were examined. Three beams were reinforced in flexure with conventional longitudinal steel bars and three beams with equivalent glass FRP bars. Shear reinforcement was provided in the form of transverse external links manufactured using glass fibres for the first set of beams and carbon fibres for the second. The experimental programme is described and findings of the project are reported and discussed in the context of the development of design guidelines urgently needed to support the wider use of FRP reinforcement for structural concrete applications.