Prediction of FRP debonding using the global-energy-balance approach

Abstract

A major research programme was carried out to analyse the mechanism of fibre-reinforced polymer (FRP) debonding from concrete beams using the global-energy-balance approach (GEBA). The analyses developed in the study provide an essential tool that will enable fracture mechanics to be used to determine the load at which FRP plates will debond from concrete beams. This obviates the need for finite-element analyses in situations where reliable details of the interface properties and crack-tip stress fields are not obtainable for an accurate analysis. This paper presents an overview of the GEBA analyses that is described in detail elsewhere, and explains the slightly unconventional assumptions made in the analyses.