Abstract
Abstract This paper presents a new approach to strengthen reinforced concrete structures using natural fiber composites. Natural fibers are often used in civil engineering for thermal or acoustic insulation, but rarely are they employed to strengthen structures. Natural fiber composites are constituted of a matrix based on epoxy adhesive and aligned continuous fiber reinforcements. In this study, we investigate several fibers (carbon, hemp, fiberglass, and linen) in tensile and bending tests. The bending results show twice the magnification of the ultimate bending load in a strengthened specimen. The study also evaluates the stress distribution in the structure. In the case of a beam strengthened by a bonded carbon plate, the functioning of an assembly single lap and the optimal anchor length was determined by analogy. The analytical study describes the shear and peel stresses in the adhesive, composite, and concrete joints, revealing the optimum values of shear stress near the ends of the adhesive joint. The same was observed in concrete. The tests showed the influence of strengthening on the ultimate load and stiffness as well as the concentration of shear stresses at the ends of the adhesive joint.
Highlights
The use of composite carbon fiber plates, though recent in civil engineering, has become a real alternative in the rehabilitation of structures
This paper briefly describes the results of tests carried out on different beams strengthened with carbon fiber composite plates by analyzing the mechanical behavior of their assembly structures, the influence of natural fibers [12], and the impact of adhesive thickness on the mechanical behavior of the strengthened concrete beam
This result shows that the mixed linen and cotton materials provide remarkable resistance compared to the materials made with hemp or flax fibers alone. This paper presents another way of using natural fiber fabrics such as hemp, cotton, and linen for concrete strengthening
Summary
The use of composite carbon fiber plates, though recent in civil engineering, has become a real alternative in the rehabilitation of structures. Sangthongtong [9] performed an experimental study on the behavior of axially loaded concrete columns strengthened with natural hemp and sisal fibers. These natural fiber composites are judiciously placed to improve tensile or compression strengths, as they have interesting physical and mechanical properties. This paper briefly describes the results of tests carried out on different beams strengthened with carbon fiber composite plates by analyzing the mechanical behavior of their assembly structures, the influence of natural fibers (e.g., hemp, bamboo, spider silk) [12], and the impact of adhesive thickness on the mechanical behavior of the strengthened concrete beam.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary 
Published Version (
Free)
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call