Strengthening of RC Beams Using Lightweight Self-compacting Cementitious Composite

Abstract

Repair and strengthening of reinforced concrete (RC) members in existing structures are very important to extend their service life. In this study, steel fiber reinforced high strength lightweight self-compacting concrete (SHLSCC) developed by the authors is applied for the strengthening of RC beams to improve their bending moment capacities. There are significant improvements in stiffness of strengthened beams as well as 14 - 58% improvements in peak load when strengthened with 40mm, 50mm and 60mm layers of SHLSCC. Application of SHLSCC in lower half (tension zone) of the beam increased its peak load by 33.1%. Results indicate that the material may effectively be utilized for strengthening of bending members in existing structures.