Finite Element Analysis of Reinforced RC Bracket Using CFRP Plates

CFRP composites have unique application qualities such as high resistance and durability to environmental conditions, having relatively low weight and easy to install in strengthening concrete structure elements. The brackets should be strengthen sufficiently if they are not calculated and implemented well. Application of the CFRP is one of the methods for such purposes. The study involves using five different configurations of CFRP sheets as a means of strengthening bracket, using finite element and non-linear dynamic analysis method within the ABAQUS software. Comparative analysis results of non-strengthened bracket model, show a 24.06% increase in the load-carrying capacity of strengthened models using the CFRP compared with the initial model (without CFRP). Results further show an increase of 24.96% of energy absorption in the strengthened models compared with the non-strengthened model.