Abstract
This paper reviews the application of natural fibre (NF) for external strengthening. This review includes the physical and mechanical properties, chemical properties, standard testing, the durability of NF composites and the performance of NF composites as external strengthening on reinforced concrete (RC) beams. It was found that most of the previous work focused on RC beams strengthening in flexure, while limited studies were performed on shear strengthening. Composite made of 30%-50% of NF and epoxy resin gave the highest mechanical strength followed by polyester and vinyl-ester. Strengthening with NF composites bonded at the bottom beam soffit along the tension zone can improve the beam capacity from 7%-40% and reduce the deflection by 24%. Wrapping at full length gives the most effective strengthening configurations compared to strip wrapping. Based on the data reported in the literature, natural fibre composites have great prospects to strengthen RC beams externally.
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