الفهرس | Only 14 pages are availabe for public view |
Abstract Using FRP (Fiber-Reinforced Polymers) composites as a reinforcement in concrete structures has gained popularity in the past few decades. FRP bars have numerous advantages that make them a good alternative to steel reinforcement, such as superior mechanical properties, non-corrosivity, sustainability, and a relatively higher stiffness-to weight ratio compared to steel reinforcement. This research is concerned with studying the performance of concrete T-shaped beams reinforced with conventional steel reinforcement and three different types of commercially available FRP bars as main flexural reinforcement. The utilized types of FRP used in this study are CFRP (Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer), GFRP (Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer), and BFRP (Basalt Fiber Reinforced Polymer). The research investigates the effects of openings at two different locations for all tested beams on the flexural behavior. Twelve beams with the same dimensions and geometry were prepared. All beams were tested under a four-point loading test and the behavior of all beams has been evaluated in terms of ultimate capacity, deflection, Energy absorption. In addition, the performance of all beams reinforced with the different types of FRP was compared to the reference RC beams reinforced with the conventional steel bars. Tested beams were simulated and modeled using nonlinear finite element method by (ABAQUS). The numerical results were compared with the experimental results to verify the modelling. The experimental results showed that using CFRP and GFRP bars instead of conventional steel bars in solid T-beams enhanced the capacity of the beam by about 12.8 % and 11 %, respectively while using BFRP bars reduced the capacity by about 18 %. Regarding beams with flexural opening, the same trend was observed but with different ratios. All beams reinforced with FRP bars and have an opening at shear span exhibited a reduction in the capacity compared to the beam reinforced with conventional steel bars. |