Experimental and analytical investigation of FRP strengthened beam response: Part I

Abstract

Beam tests on 1·0 m long reinforced concrete beams with fibre reinforced plastic plates epoxy-bonded to their soffits are reported. In these tests, a simple parametric study has been carried out in which the plate area, plate aspect ratio, plate material and the method of anchoring the plate ends have been varied. The effects of these variables on overall behaviour are discussed. An iterative analytica1 method which uses the principles of strain compatibility and equilibrium has been used for predicting the strengthened beam response. The use of both a cracked and a partially cracked section including steel strain hardening have been considered in developing the model. The analytica1 and experimental responses are compared and observations noted.