Mechanical behavior of strengthened reinforced concrete beams an experimental study

Abstract

Sustainability of building structures is of particular importance. In recent decades, the use of composite materials to reinforce reinforced concrete structures has proven to be one of the most promising technologies in the field of structural materials engineering. Composite materials have interesting mechanical properties, light weight and have the ability to make complex shapes. Structural efficiency and the efficiency of strengthening technology is one of the most significant advantages for expanding their industrial application. This experimental study scientifically confirms the effect of strengthening with composite materials on the mechanical properties of reinforced concrete beams. The purpose of this reinforcement technique is to improve the load-bearing capacity of the structure and to increase its rigidity and its service life. The aim is to study the mechanical behavior with different configurations to strengthening the structure. The experimental part includes preparation, fabrication and testing of four reinforced concrete beams with the same geometry (270x30x13cm). One non-reinforced beam, which serves as a reference and 3 strengthened reinforced concrete beams with different types of reinforcement configurations. The results show a significant increase in the ultimate load by more than 203% compared to a non-reinforced beam and a one-third reduction in the sagging of reinforced beams.