Journals Proceedings

Abstract

An experimental study is presented in this paper on the behaviour of square R. C. columns of size 750 × 150 × 150 mm retrofitted with Glass fibre reinforced polymer (GFRP) sheets along with a brief review of literature. One column without GFRP and four columns complete wrapped with one, two, three and four layers of GFRP sheets have been tested for axial loading. The failure axial loads and failure modes of the columns have also been observed. A critical discussion is made with respect to increase in the strength of retrofitted columns with respect to the column without GFRP in order to explore the optimal use of GFRP for strengthening the R. C. columns. Further, an analytical model of RC column retrofitted with externally bonded FRP has also been proposed in compatibility with IS: 456-2000 [1] as the design guidelines on strengthening/retrofitting of concrete structures using externally bonded FRP laminates/sheets are yet to be recommended in India. The experimental ultimate load carrying capacity of columns is also compared with that of the respective columns predicted from the present analytical model and literature.