Numerical simulation of tests for the evaluation of the performance of the reinforced concrete slabs strengthening by FRCM

Abstract

Abstract:In this work the attention is focused to the numerical simulation of the experimental bending tests carried out on a total of six reinforced concrete r.c. plates the latter aimed to provide a basic understanding of the its performance when strengthened by Fiber Reinforced Cementitius Matrix (FRCM) Composites. Three of those were used as control specimens. The numerical simulation was carried out by LUSAS software. A good correlation between the FE results and data obtained from the test, both in the load-deformation behavior and the failure load was highlighted. This permits to prove that applied strengthening system gives back an enhancement 2.5 times greater in respect of the unreinforced case. A greater energy dissipation ability and a residual load-bearing capacity makes the proposed system very useful in the retro tting as well as in the case of strengthening of bridge structures. Based on the validation of the FE results in bending, the numerical analysis was also extended to characterize the behavior of this strengthening system in tensile.

Numerical modeling of FRCM composites for the seismic retrofitting of existing concrete structures

“…The main advantages of this solution with respect to other retrofitting techniques are the better compatibility with irregular surfaces (such as concrete substrates), the easier workability, the higher durability and the smaller cost of installation [9]. Finite element analyses on FRCM-strengthened elements represent an important tool to predict the enhancement of their structural capacity [10], [11]. The aim of this study is not only to verify the effectiveness of FRCM composites in strengthening and retrofitting reinforced concrete elements, but also to assess the potential of available numerical approaches in simulating the behavior of these materials when applied as externally bonded reinforcements.…”