Deflection of concrete slabs with GFRP reinforcement caused by shrinkage

Abstract

Abstract The use of new reinforcing materials and products in the construction industry requires their thorough assessment for a variety of design situations. One of the significant effects is the shrinkage of the concrete, which in the case of asymmetrically reinforced elements can cause the element to be deformed. The research was focused on slabs asymmetrically reinforced by composite reinforcement (GFRP) and by three reinforcement stages. To eliminate the effect of concrete non-homogeneity, a concrete slab of the same dimensions was made of the same concrete. The results show a significant effect of shrinkage on reinforced slabs.