Influence of Anchorage on the Behavior of CFRP RC Beams in Flexure

Structural elements such as beams, slabs and columns may require strengthening during their service life period. The need for strengthening may arise due to one or a combination of several factors including construction or design defects, increased load carrying demands, change in use of structure, seismic upgrade, or meeting new code requirements. Studies have shown that Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP) composites, in the form of sheets, have emerged as a viable, cost-effective alternative to steel plates or other techniques in strengthening RC members. The principal advantages of FRP sheets over steel plates include high strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance and flexibility in its use. Another significant advantage of this repair technique is that overall repair cost in terms of labor, material and equipment is low and can offset the high material cost. However, the long-term durability and performance of FRP sheet strengthened RC members is a concern in civil engineering community. This work study involves experimental and theoretical investigations of the behavior of flexural debonding carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) laminates with steel anchorages.