Work

RC beams strengthened with hemp-FRCM and cotton-FRCM under cyclic bending loads

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: Fiber Reinforced Cementitious Matrices (FRCM) is an interesting solution to retrofit structures, due its compatibility with the substrate and its versatility. This paper presents the application of vegetal-FRCM for strengthening RC beams. Two types of vegetal fibers, cotton and hemp, were coated with epoxy and polyester resin and were embedded into a mortar matrix to retrofit RC-beams subjected to cyclic bending loads. Additionally, FEA simulation analyses of the cyclic bending tests were conducted. Modal analysis was performed on both pre- and post-strengthened RC beams to assess the impact of FRCM on their vibrational modes. The application of FRCM increased the frequency of the 1st bending vibrational mode, enhanced the maximum load-bearing capacity of the specimens between a 4 and a 22 %, and delayed the appearance of cracking in the substrate. The numerical simulation proved to be reliable until the yield point, therefore it is suitable for determining design parameters.

Source: Engineering Structures

DOI: 10.1016/j.engstruct.2024.118718

Authors: Virginia Mendizabal, Borja Martínez, Ernest Bernat-Maso, Lluís Gil

Institution: Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya

Language: English

Topic: Structural Behavior of Reinforced Concrete

Subfield: Building and Construction

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,440