Strengthening Existing Concrete Structures with Fibre Reinforced Polymers (FRP) in the New Version of Eurocode 2

Abstract

This paper aims to introduce the content of Annex J “Strengthening of Existing Concrete Structures with CFRP” of Eurocode 2 [1]. This is first time that the design of adhesively bonded reinforcement with CFRP has been introduced in the European regulations through an informative annex. Annex J considers two different bonded strengthening techniques: externally bonded reinforcement (EBR) that consists of bonding CFRP strips or sheets to the surface of concrete elements, and near surface mounted reinforcement (NSM) that consists of embedding a CFRP strip or rod to a slot cut in the concrete cover. Since, the content of Annex J is new, asummary and background related to all aspects required for designing CFRP strengthened systems for concrete structures, are given in this paper.

The Origins and Some Highlights on the New Proposal for Eurocode 2

“…• Strengthening of Existing Concrete Structures with FRP [32] Annex J [18] contains rules for strengthening existing structures with Carbon Fibre Reinforced Polymer (CFRP). The reinforcement can be externally bonded to the surface (EBR) or near surface mounted in the concrete (NSM).…”