Title: Experimental Assessment of Large-Scale FRP-Strengthened RC Shear Controlled Walls Subjected to Cyclic Loads

Author(s): Lin S-H, Kim I, Borwankar A, Kanitkar R, Hagen G, Shapack G

Publication: Symposium Paper

Volume: 360

Issue:

Appears on pages(s): 612-627

Keywords: fiber reinforced polymer (FRP), fiber anchors, seismic, shear wall, retrofit

DOI: 10.14359/51740652

Date: 3/1/2024

Abstract:
Fiber reinforced polymers (FRP) are commonly used to seismically retrofit concrete structural walls. Limited design guidance for the seismic application of FRP strengthening is currently available to designers in guidelines such as ACI PRC-440.2-17 or standards like ASCE/SEI 41-17. This paper presents the description and results of an experimental effort to investigate the effectiveness of FRP retrofitted concrete walls. The specimen wall thickness was either 6 in or 12 in, which represents a typical range of wall thickness seen in older buildings. To better reflect the most common applications seen in the industry, the walls were retrofitted with FRP, and anchored with fiber anchors only on one side of the wall. The study demonstrates that the effectiveness of FRP is reduced as the wall thickness increases and that the FRP must be anchored to the wall for any tangible benefit. The results are used to assess the current provisions in ACI PRC-440.2-17 and ASCE/SEI 41-17. It is apparent that additional testing is required to better understand the complexities involved in the FRP strengthening of shear walls and such testing is scheduled for the near future.