Effects of Eccentric Load on Un-Strengthen and CFRP Strengthened RC Beams

Abstract

CFRP strengthened reinforced concrete (RC) beams are usually tested under either three points or four point concentric loads; the effect of eccentricity is neglected in many studies. In this experimental program eight RC beams tested in two groups, GROUP ‘A’ & ‘B’. In group ‘A’ four RC beam tested, one control beam tested under concentric load and three under the eccentricity of 40, 60 and 80 mm respectively. The remaining four RC beams in group ’B’ strengthened using carbon fibre reinforced polymer (CFRP) strip and tested under the 60mm eccentricity. The experiment has confirmed the behaviour transformation from flexure failure to local failure due to variation in eccentricity. Therefore, the effects of eccentricity cannot be neglected and required special consideration before applying strengthening scheme on RC beam. The RC beams strengthen using CFRP have the ability to enhanced the load carrying capacity of beams tremendously, but the eccentric load effect on ductility, and failure mode of RC beams.