Investigation of the behavior of circular concrete columns reinforced with carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) jackets

Abstract

Recent advancements in the fields of fiber reinforced polymers (FRPs) have resulted in the development of new materials with great potential for applications in civil engineering structures, and due to extensive research over recent years, FRPs are now being considered for the design of new structures. This study describes how carbon fiber reinforced polymer jackets can be used to reinforce circular concrete columns. Fibers aligned in the circumferential direction provide axial and shear strength to the concrete, while fibers aligned in the longitudinal direction provide flexural reinforcement. Prefabricated FRP jackets or tubes would also provide the formwork for the columns, resulting in a decrease in labor and materials required for construction. Also, the enhanced behavior of FRP jacketed concrete columns could allow the use of smaller sections than would be required for conventionally reinforced concrete columns. Furthermore, FRP jacket reinforced concrete columns would be more durable than conventionally reinforced concrete columns and therefore would require less maintenance and have longer service life.Key words: bridge, carbon, column, concrete, confinement, fiber reinforced polymer, jacket, retrofitting, seismic, strengthening.