An Experimental and Numerical Investigation on Reinforced Concrete Beams Damaged at Different Levels of Shear Damage and Strengthening With CFRP Sheets

Abstract

In this study, a series of investigations have been planned to examine the altered mechanical properties of reinforced concrete beams that have experienced different levels of shear damage under vertical loads, through the application of Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) strengthening. Both experimental and numerical approaches will be utilized to analyze these effects comprehensively. Within the scope of this study, four reinforced concrete beams with rectangular cross-sections and inadequate shear strength were subjected to vertical loads. One of these beams was designated as the reference beam, while the other three beams were loaded to induce varying levels of damage, corresponding to 50%, 65%, and 85% of the reference beam's shear capacity. Subsequently, these beams were strengthening with CFRP strips at shear spans of 12.5/10 cm width and spacing. The experiments were then repeated with this strengthening. Models were created using the ABAQUS finite element program, considering support, load, and material conditions, to simulate the experiments accurately. At the conclusion of the study, the maximum load-carrying capacity obtained from the Finite Element Model (FEM) was found to be between 95% to 105% of the maximum experimental Load-Carrying Capacity (Pu). Additionally, the study demonstrated that the crack mechanisms occurring in the beams during the experiments were in perfect agreement with those predicted by the finite element analysis.