Mohamad J. Terro
Kuwait University, Kuwait
Sameer Hamoush
North Carolina AandT State University, USA
Moetaz El-Hawary
Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Kuwait
ABSTRACT
This investigation presents the use of Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP) composite
systems in upgrading existing reinforced concrete frames to meet strength and
ductility requirements laid out in recent ACI building codes (ACI-318. 2002).
Analytical calculations are presented for the shear behavior of frames
strengthened with layers of FRP and an experimental study is carried out to
verify the mechanical properties of the proposed FRP systems with various fiber
architecture designs. Carbon and fiber glass FRP systems have been analysed.
Flat layers and corrugated shapes with rectangular and circular configurations
are employed in the retrofitting systems in addition to various orientations of
the fibers which are taken into consideration. The ductility requirement is
ensured by controlling the out of plane flexural rigidity of the FRP systems.
The desired out of plane rigidity is obtained by increasing the thickness of the
FRP systems or by corrugating the applied FRP overlays. In conclusion, this
study has shown that the use of FRP systems is an efficient and viable repair
method for upgrading concrete frame connections with shear deficiency.
KEYWORDS: shear; FRP; connections; strength; ductility