Paper Contents
Abstract
The use of externally bonded advanced fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites for structural strengthening has gained significant popularity worldwide over the past decade. This method provides a more cost-effective and technically superior alternative to traditional strengthening techniques. It offers advantages such as enhanced strength, excellent fatigue resistance, lightweight properties, corrosion resistance, quick and easy installation, and minimal alteration to the structures geometry. Despite the prevalence of continuous reinforced concrete (RC) beams in construction, research on FRP strengthening for such beams remains limited.This study focuses on an experimental investigation to analyze the behavior of continuous RC beams under static loading. Strengthening techniques involve the application of externally bonded glass fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP) sheets and unbonded GFRP secured using a steel bolt anchorage system. Various strengthening schemes have been implemented. The experiment involves six continuous (two-span) beams, each with overall dimensions of 1502502300 mm. All beams have identical longitudinal and transverse reinforcement. Among them, one beam remains unstrengthened and serves as the control, while the others are reinforced using different configurations of bonded GFRP sheets and unbonded GFRP with end anchorage.The study evaluates the structural response of these beams, focusing on failure modes, load-bearing capacity improvements, and load-deflection behavior. Findings indicate that bonding GFRP sheets to the shear face significantly enhances the shear strength of RC beams. Additionally, the use of unbonded sheets with end anchorage improves crack resistance by delaying the formation of visible cracks and minimizing crack widths under higher load conditions.
Copyright
Copyright © 2025 Devendra Tyagi. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License.
