Investigation on the effects of fiber composites at concrete joints

Abstract

This investigation involves parametric studies of the application of fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composite laminates to exterior beam–column joints to increase their moment capacity. Three beam–column joint models were examined using various fiber composite laminates and wraps, and various thickness. Composite laminates and wraps considered were made out of epoxy and fibers such as E-glass, carbon, and kevlar. One beam–column joint model without FRP reinforcement was used as a control specimen for comparison. The other two beam–column joint models studied included laminates bonded to the tensile faces with and without wraps. The wraps were provided to prevent the peeling of the laminates. The finite element analysis results indicated that the choice of the fiber composite materials, the laminate and wraps arrangement and thickness affected the enhancement of the structural joint performance significantly. Furthermore, an increase in the moment capacity of up to 37% was observed when the joints were reinforced with FRP laminates and were compared to the control specimen.