Theoretical analysis on flexural strengthening of RC beams using GFRP composites in terms of strength to the weight ratio: A way forward

Abstract

Aramid, Glass or Carbon Fibre Reinforced Polymer (GFRP/CFRP) are three types of composites that are commonly used in the civil, mechanical and automobile sectors worldwide. GFRP composites are often used for structural member strengthening, repairs, and rehabilitation. In comparison to CFRP and Aramid FRP composites, GFRP is easily available, inexpensive, good strength to the weight ratio, and has several additional benefits. The strength-to-weight ratio of GFRP composites and steel plates for flexural strengthening of RC beams is investigated in this work. Theoretical analysis for the RC beam strengthened with GFRP composites and steel plates were performed using the established equation based on Indian standards and the ACI code. The self-weight of the beam and the superimposed dead load owing to the block/brick work were taken into account in the design calculations. The beam's load carrying capability is inadequate due to the excessive load, thus it must be strengthened with different materials: GFRP Chopped Strand Mat (CSM) composites or steel plates. The evaluations were conducted under the assumptions that the loss of moment carrying capacity due to concrete deformation caused by bolt holes and failure due to GFRP composite delamination would be disregarded. Strength to weight ratio of GFRP composites and steel plate requirements have been computed and compared for the known dimensions, unit weight and tensile strength of the strengthening materials, and load carrying capability of the strengthened RC beam. Comparative study proves that the flexural strengthening of RC beams using GFRP composites, the strength to weight ratio is much higher than when the identical beams are strengthened with steel plate.