Evaluation of steel I-beams strengthened by various plating methods

Flexural behavior of up-graded steel I-beams, IPE 160, with bonded/welded steel plates and bonded carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) plates/sheets were evaluated in this work. Different types of end anchorage (belted CFRP sheet, steel clamped, and end welded) were applied to enhance the efficiency of the bonded element. The present experimental results showed that, plate end anchorage increased markedly the efficiency of bonded steel and CFRP plates. CFRP sheet showed higher resistance to debond than CFRP plate. Two separate CFRP strips bonded below the lower flange of the I-beam is the best method for bonded CFRP plate to I-beams. Bonded/welded hybrid joint technique for attachment of the steel plate in tension side is the most efficient technique. All strengthened beams and control beam failed due to distortional buckling after the yield occurrence.