Experimental Study of Shear Failure of Damaged RC Beam Strengthens with GFRP

Swapnil Shinde*
Periodicity:January - March'2024

Abstract

Retrofitting existing structures to withstand external forces such as seismic events, wind, and vibrations is crucial for enhancing their longevity and safety. The decision to retrofit or demolish a structure is typically based on its stress level. Various retrofitting techniques, including the use of steel plates, steel jacketing, FRP composites, and chemical methods, have been employed based on experiential knowledge. This study focuses on the shear strengthening of reinforced concrete (RC) beams using Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer (GFRP) sheets applied through the wet layup method.  RC beams primarily fail in two modes: flexural and shear failure. Flexural failure is ductile and provides warning through large deflections and cracks, whereas shear failure is brittle and catastrophic, often occurring without prior warning. Insufficient shear strength can cause premature failure in RC beams, necessitating effective strengthening methods. The research aimed to evaluate the shear strength enhancement of RC beams using different GFRP wrapping techniques. Fifteen RC beams of dimensions 200mm x 200mm x 700mm were cast and tested under two-point loading to assess their initial shear capacity. Post-failure, these beams were retrofitted using various GFRP wrapping configurations and retested to evaluate the improvement in load-carrying capacity. Results indicated significant shear strength improvements across different wrapping methods, with shear span vertical alignment wrapping yielding the highest strength increase, followed by full wrapping, U-shape wrapping, side wrapping, and shear span inclined wrapping. The study concludes that GFRP wrapping, particularly shear span vertical alignment, effectively enhances the shear strength of RC beams, providing a practical and economical solution for structural retrofitting.

Keywords

Retrofitting, shear failure, GFRP wrapping, RCC beams, RCC structure, Concrete mix design

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