Reinforced concrete junction wrapped by GFRP composites: Fid-Bau Portal

Reinforced concrete junction wrapped by GFRP composites

Patel, B.A. / Dave, U.V.

Upgradation of RC (Reinforced Concrete) structure is a significant sector of construction industries. For this operation FRPC (Fiber Reinforced Polymer Composites) Wraps are successfully employed as external confinement for improving strength and ductility of existing RC structures. Since, exterior BC junction subjected to seismic loading plays an important role in moment resisting framed structures, present study is focused on the experimental response of exterior RC BC (Beam-Column) junction wrapped with GFRP (Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer) composite. For Experimentation, four similar half scale specimens are prepared. Reinforcement details of these specimens are divided in two major categories, i.e. Non-ductile and Ductile. Thus, two Non-ductile and two ductile specimens are cast. From two specimens of each category, one specimen is tested as control and another tested with wrapping. This paper also discusses about preparation of testing mechanism for exterior BC junction to provide proper boundary condition and loading action, which simulates seismic action. The structural response during application of cyclic load has been measured in terms of strain induced near joint area and load corresponding to displacement at tip of the beam. Strain is measured with help of electronic strain gauges (at horizontal surface) and digital strain gauges (at vertical surface). Load is measured by load cell and displacement is measured with help of LVDT (Linear Variable Displacement Transducers). By compiling data obtained from the monitoring equipment, maximum load under corresponding displacement, energy-dissipated, energy-applied, specific damping capacity and stiffness have been calculated. From calculated results it is found that wrapping system is more effective over the specimen with ductile detail.