Interface bond behavior of tensioned glass fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP) tendons embedded in cemented soils

Abstract

This paper presents, evaluates, and interprets element pullout tests conducted to investigate the interface bond behavior of Glass Fiber-Reinforced Polymer (GFRP) tendons embedded in cemented soils. Pullout tests were conducted in conjunction with unconfined compression tests to characterize the strength of the cemented soils in which GFRP tendons were embedded. The effects of water content, cement content, and curing time of the cemented soil on the interface bond strength were investigated. Bond-slip curves of the tested specimens were developed considering a multi-segment function defined by characteristic points of interface bond stress peaks and troughs. Two sets of bond-slip curves were identified based on behavior trends observed in the residual strength phase. The ultimate bond strength of the GFRP tendons in cemented soils was found to strongly correlate with the compressive strength of the cemented soil. Ultimately, the bond-slip behavior was modeled using the cemented soil’s unconfined compressive strength and the GFRP tendon’s rib spacing. The proposed bond-slip model was developed using correlations of bond strength and against the parameters governing the behavior of cemented soil.