Performance of GFRP-RC precast cap beam to column connections with epoxy-anchored reinforcement: a numerical study

Abstract

In this study, a detailed finite element investigation was conducted to evaluate the performance of glass fibre-reinforced polymer (GFRP) RC precast cap beam to column connections connected with epoxy-anchored reinforcement (epoxy duct connection). The developed model was initially validated against three experimental results with different anchored GFRP reinforcement considering the effect of reinforcement slippage. Different interaction models for slippage simulation were evaluated and discussed. The validated model was then utilized to investigate the effect of anchored length, bar diameters, anchored reinforcement amount, and the geometry of the connection. The results indicate that an optimum anchored length, equal to 25 times the bar's diameter, should be provided. It was also found that the precast beam-to-column element connection should be designed for a moment capacity at least 25% higher than that of the column section. Moreover, a minimum beam width, depth and beam overhanging length of 1.75, 1.6 and 0.25 times the column width respectively were recommended to be considered in design. The results from this study can provide direct guidelines for the design of precast GFRP-RC cap beam to the column connection with epoxy anchored reinforcement, especially in applications where precast elements need to be erected quickly, a novel method that can accelerate the construction of jetties and bridges.