Abstract
The use of composite materials patches for the reinforcement of steel structures attracts particular interest. Due to their high strength, light weight, and high fatigue and corrosion resistance, composite patches represent a versatile reinforcement solution. In this paper, the reinforcement of steel beams with CFRP patches is examined. Large scale tests of “H” and “square hollow” cross section steel beams are conducted. The beams are reinforced with CFRP patches, investigating the effect of the thickness and the length of the patch, and the type of the cohesive joint. All reinforced specimens showed increase of their stiffness and their maximum load capacity. Furthermore, advanced finite element models are developed for the simulation of the mechanical behavior of the reinforced steel beams. FE results relate very well to the experimental ones for most of the measured magnitudes, thus verifying the reliability of the developed models in estimating stiffness, yield load and maximum load capacity of the beams.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
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
