STRENGTHENING OF RC BEAM USING CARBON FIBER REINFORCED POLYMER LAMINATES

Abstract

Numerous factors, including I the need to upgrade existing structures as a result of infrastructure development, (ii) excessive deflection, cracking, and insufficient ultimate strength, (iii) the need to carry higher permissible loads, (iv) design flaws, (v) subpar building techniques, (vi) poor durability, etc., have made structural strengthening of reinforced concrete (RC) structural elements necessary. Structures or components may occasionally be overloaded, which results in increased cracking and decreased stiffness/strength. The repair and retrofitting of RC structural components can be handled using a number of well-liked procedures, including externally bonded steel plates, concrete jacketing, fiber-reinforced laminates or sheets, external pre-stressing, and external bar reinforcement techniques. Because to a significant mismatch in the tensile strength and stiffness of that material, strengthening employing CFRP has recently been found to be susceptible to unfavourable brittle failures. These restrictions are essential for selecting the right technology and material for strengthening. Each method or retrofit material has advantages and disadvantages of its own. Low strength to weight ratios, compatibility challenges between the parent and repair materials, corrosion and durability problems, and failure modes are the main drawbacks of these techniques.