Anchoring and stressing methods for prestressed FRP plates: State-of-the-art review

Abstract

Prestressing of the fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) plate is applied to fully extend the high-strength performance of the FRP plate in structure reinforcement. Anchoring methods and stressing are the two main issues for prestressed FRP plates. Although a number of methods concerning those two main issues have been developed, the literature lacks a systematic review on the existing methods for FRP plates anchoring and stressing. This article compares the comprehensive performance of different FRP plates, recommending BFRP plates as more suitable for use in prestressed tensioning systems. It contrasts the principles and applicability of various anchoring devices, suggesting that wedge-type clip anchors and flat-type anchors show promising development prospects. Additionally, addressing stress concentration in the anchorage zones of low-modulus FRP plates is key to enhancing anchoring efficiency. Ultimately, the paper evaluates tensioning methods for FRP plates, identifying “the method of jacking against the strengthened component” as the most promising, yet it requires innovation in terms of dimensions and positioning of the tensioning frame to enhance its applicability to specific engineering needs.