Alternatives to delay premature failure of CFRP strengthened reinforced concrete members

Abstract

This Study was focused on identifying and proposing alternatives such that premature debonding failure of CFRP strengthened reinforced concrete members in flexure is delayed. Two of our proposed alternatives were investigated in relation to three control beams of two standard configurations. A unidirectional CFRP fabric was applied onto the concrete surface using two part epoxy resin as a binder inclusive of an inexpensive polymer mesh of polyester in specific arrangements. Three point bending tests were conducted. This study shows that the polymer mesh of polyester laid in the bond line has effectively delayed premature failure of composites. A range of 60% to 80% strength gains with respect to control beams was noted. Failure was observed with the formation of a mid-span flexure crack causing mid span debonding and subsequently debonding at the ends.