NSM-CFRP rods with varied embedment depths for strengthening RC T-beams in the negative moment region: Investigation on high cyclic response

Abstract

Throughout its service life, structural reinforced concrete (RC) encounters cyclic loads and the load amplitude might always vary, leading to a mixed high and low-cycle failure. This research investigates the high cyclic response of RC T-beams strengthened in the negative moment region using near-surface mounted (NSM) Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) rods. The distinctive aspect lies in exploring varied embedment depths, including the introduction of half-embedded configurations as an alternative NSM technique. The study comprehensively analyzes load-carrying capacity, failure modes, energy dissipation, ductility, stiffness degradation, and strain behavior, providing insights into the effects of loading rates on structural response. Through an experimental program comparing fully-embedded (BF-D) and half-embedded (BH-D) CFRP rods with a control beam (BN-D) under high-rate cyclic loading, significant increases in ultimate load capacity (21.23% for BH-D and 30.86% for BF-D) are demonstrated despite debonding occurrences. The findings highlight a trade-off between benefits (enhanced ultimate load capacities, improved energy dissipation, and increased stiffness) and drawbacks (reduced ductility and tendencies toward brittle behavior) under high loading rates. Furthermore, a rate-dependent material formula is developed and validated, predicting the flexural strength of the negative moment region in good agreement with experimental results. Finally, this research contributes practical solutions to RC element strengthening challenges and advances understanding of NSM-CFRP-strengthened beam, emphasizing the impact of loading rates on structural response.