Performance of CFRP-strengthened RC beams subjected to repeated loads

Abstract

In this paper, the effects of fatigue leading to crack formation and potential durability-bonding problems in reinforced concrete (RC) beams strengthened by carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) are studied. These effects are shown to cause CFRP de-bonding and loss of load carrying capabilities under static or low cyclic loading. Two series of RC beams with CFRP strengthening system are constructed and designed to fail in shear and flexural failures, respectively, under static loading. Repeated loading tests are conducted according to various loading ranges and loading cycles, and the experimentally determined fatigue properties are discussed. The test results show that it is possible to eliminate the debonding modes for longitudinally bonded CFRP using a U-wrap CFRP combination. The fatigue loads tested showed a significant effect on concrete rather than the CFRP system especially for the strengthened beams bearing a higher shear level. Moreover, the proposed equation to fit the testing S–N curve and the discussion of the stress in the component materials could be used for fatigue life predictions of beams with CFRP strengthening systems.