| Abstract: |
Ultra-high-performance fiber-reinforced concrete (UHPFRC) is one of the
most favorable materials for strengthening RC beams. Studies on UHPFRC
strengthening of RC beams mainly address flexural behavior. Further research
is needed on key factors, such as UHPFRC-to-beam bond and system cost
linked to strip geometry. This research studies experimentally and theoretically
the possibility of strengthening the RC beams by combining a strip of
UHPFRC to the bottom surface of some specimens or the bottom and top surfaces
together for others. The study focused on three key variables to assess the
effectiveness of UHPFRC strengthening strips: placement (bottom side only or
both sides), length of the bottom strip relative to the total beam length (0.50,
0.60, and 0.80 L), and presence or absence of concrete cover on the bottom side
before casting the UHPFRC strip. The results for a load-deflection response,
crack propagation, stiffness, and energy dissipation were used to compare
other strengthened specimens. Eight strengthened specimens, divided into
three series, were tested through a 4-point loading regime to consider the
effects of different parameters. Results revealed that strengthened beams on
the bottom and top sides showed remarkably enhanced ultimate load, stiffness,
and energy dissipation. UHPFRC strip length and removal of concrete cover
were the most significant parameters. Moreover, extending the strip length
from 1000 to 1200 mm shifted failure from shear to bending, increasing stiffness
by 29% and load capacity by 23%, while deflection and energy dissipation
were less affected. Further increasing the strip length to 1600 mm boosted load
capacity and stiffness by 38% and 75%, while deflection and energy dissipation
dropped by 21% and 31%. Finally, a numerical analysis was presented to investigate
the influence of numerous parameters that might influence the bending
performance of strengthened RC beams.
|
|
|