Retrofitting of Beams using Fibre Reinforced Polymer

Abstract

Retrofitting is the modification of existing structures to make them more resistant to seismic activity, ground motion etc. Many of the existing reinforced concrete structures throughout the world are in urgent need of rehabilitation, repair or reconstruction because of deterioration due to various factors like corrosion, lack of detailing, failure of bonding between beam- column joints etc. Fibre Reinforced Polymer (FRP) composite has been accepted in the construction industry as a promising substitute for repairing and in incrementing the strength of RCC structures. It stabilizes the current structure of buildings and making them earthquake resistant. This paper presents a representative overview of the current state of using FRP materials as a retrofitting technique for the structures not designed to resist seismic action. It summarizes the scopes and uses of FRP materials in seismic strengthening of RCC structures and masonry retrofitting.