Shear repair of RC beams using epoxy injection and hybrid external FRP

Abstract

This experimental study aims at investigating the behavior of reinforced concrete (RC) beams strengthened by unidirectional and hybrid bidirectional fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) sheets and subjected to cyclic loading. RC beams tested under cycled loading were subsequently repaired using both epoxy injection and external FRP sheets, and then re-tested under monotonic loading. Six RC beam specimens, two of which were control specimens and four were shear deficient, were upgraded with side-bonded FRP sheets in the first phase of the experimental program. In the second phase, three of the damaged beams were repaired using epoxy injection and unidirectional carbon fiber polymer (CFRP) sheets. The repairing method, FRP type, and FRP wrapping scheme were the test variables investigated. Test results show that the repair schemes imparted significant mechanical improvements in terms of ultimate shear capacity and ductility. The simultaneous application of epoxy injection and externally bonded FRP sheets was found to be a highly effective repair technique.