Finite Element Analysis of Axially Loaded GFRP-Reinforced Concrete Hollow Square Columns

Abstract

Hollow concrete columns are often employed in bridge constructions because of their lighter weight and effective section characteristics. In addition, to reduce the issue of steel reinforcement corrosion and create a strong and light construction, hollow section columns are also reinforced with bars made of fiber-reinforced polymer. This research aimed to analyze the effect of GFRP (glass fiber reinforced polymer) on the compression strength of hollow square concrete columns under an axial concentric load. The finite element application ABAQUS 2019 version was used to simulate a finite element model, calibrated utilizing experimental data from previous studies for various geometric models of concrete and material specifications of the reinforcement. The findings of the experimental studies and the finite element model exhibit excellent agreement. Finally, according to the parametric study's results, A parametric analysis is done to assess the impact of changing reinforcement ratio, spacing between the ties, inner-to-outer section width ratio, and a comparison with steel reinforcement. The computational results clearly show how an Increased longitudinal GFRP reinforcement ratio improves the columns' bearing capability, but when compared to steel reinforcement, it provides less bearing capability. For the optimum outcome with hollow square concrete columns, it is advised to adopt the limit of the i/o between 0.27 and 0.38. In addition, changing the spacing between stirrups was shown not to significantly impact the capacity for axial load in hollow square concrete columns.