Title:
Innovative Flexural Strengthening of Reinforced Concrete Columns Using Carbon-Fiber Anchors
Author(s):
Ioannis Vrettos, Efstathia Kefala, and Thanasis C. Triantafillou
Publication:
Structural Journal
Volume:
110
Issue:
1
Appears on pages(s):
63-70
Keywords:
carbon-fiber anchors; columns; flexure; seismic retrofitting; strengthening
DOI:
10.14359/51684330
Date:
1/1/2013
Abstract:
This paper presents the results of an experimental program that aimed to study the behavior of reinforced concrete (RC) columns under simulated seismic loading strengthened in flexure with anchored carbon-fiber sheets. The role of different parameters is examined by comparing the lateral load-versus-displacement response characteristics (peak force, drift ratios, energy dissipation, and stiffness). These parameters included the number of anchors and the volume of fibers in each anchor. The results were combined with a simple analytical model to yield values for the effective strain in the anchors at failure. It is concluded that carbon-fiber anchors provide a viable solution toward enhancing the flexural resistance of RC columns subjected to seismic loads, especially if they are made of a substantial amount of fibers.