Investigation on alternatives to avoid de-bonding failure of CFRP strengthened members

Abstract

This study deals with the investigation of de-bonding failures when CFRP is used for structural retrofitting to enhance the load carrying capacity of reinforced concrete members. De-bonding failures being the most dominating failure mode as limiting factor for enhancing strength hinders the full utilization of the capabilities of CFRP. Therefore the objective of this study is to come up with a proposal that would delay the premature failure of strengthened members by enhancing the strength gains by means of a specific arrangement or orientation of placement or any other fastening mechanism. This study would yield better strength gains and present a simple method that would overcome de-bonding failure by a significant fraction.