Retrofitting of RC Beams with Externally Bonded Simcon Laminates

Abstract

This paper presents the results of experimental and analytical studies concerning the flexural strengthening of RC beams using externally bonded Slurry Infiltrated Mat CONcrete (SIMCON) laminates. A total of four reinforced concrete beams were cast and tested in the laboratory over an effective span of 3000 mm. Three beams were strengthened with bonded (SIMCON) laminate at the bottom under virgin condition and tested until failure; the remaining one beam was used as control specimen. Static responses of all the beams were evaluated in terms of strength, stiffness, ductility ratio, energy absorption capacity factor, compositeness between laminate and concrete, and the associated failure modes. The theoretical moment-curvature relationship for the test specimen and the load-displacement response of the strengthened beams and control beam were predicted by using FEA software ANSYS. Comparison was made between the numerical (ANSYS) with the experimental and theoretical results. The results show that the strengthened beams exhibit increased flexural strength, enhanced flexural stiffness, and composite action until failure.