PERFORMANCE OF RC BEAMS STRENGTHENED WITH FRP STRIPS

A non-linear finite element analysis of reinforced concrete beam strengthened with bonded FRP strips is presented. The model is based on the principal of virtual work. The nonlinear implicit governing equations are derived and solved through an iterative linearized procedure. Verification of the nonlinear model is achieved through comparison of load-deflection response with experimental results achieved by other researchers. The results of the proposed analysis include effects such as loaddeflection response and ductility versus number of strips. The study reveals that the finite element method can predict the strength and ductility of the beam and can also capture the strains along the beam. It also reveals that the failure modes of the beams strengthened by FRP are more ductile than unstrengthened ones. Also remarkable increase in strength is achieved.