Investigation of the Experimental Shear Resistance of RC T-beams after Strengthening with Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) Bars

Abstract

This study investigates the stiffness and shear resistance of T-reinforced concrete beams that have been strengthened against shear using the embedded through-section approach. The beams were exposed to a monotonic one-point load until failure. The experimental methodology included the investigation of 12 T beams made of reinforced concrete, consisting of 2 reference beams that were not subjected to any strengthening measures and 10 reinforced beams. The 12 beams were classified into two primary categories: those with stirrups and those without stirrups. The primary factors from each group encompassed the spacing and angle of inclination pertaining to the Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) bars placed along the central axis of the section. Various configurations were used, including varied spacing intervals and degrees of inclination. The results showed that the ratio of the CFRP shear resistance to the total section (Vf / Vsec) ranged between 10 to 21% in group one (with stirrups). This means that the Embedded Through Section (ETS) technique with CFRP bars is useful in increasing the shear resistance of reinforced concrete beams. For group two (without stirrups), this ratio ranged between 56 to 58.5%. That is, ETS with CFRP bars significantly increases the shear resistance of reinforced concrete beams without stirrups.