Axial Compressive Strength of Reinforced Concrete Columns Wrapped with Fiber Reinforced Polymers (FRP)

Abstract

This paper presents the results of a study on the axial compressive strength of columnsstrengthened with FRP wrap. The experimental part of the study included testing 6 reinforcedconcrete columns in two series. The first series comprised three similar circular reinforced concretecolumns strengthened with FRP wrap. The second series consisted of three similar square columns,two with sharp corners, and the other with rounded corners. Axial load and displacement of columnswere recorded during tests using a displacement control test set up. Test results are compared with thevalues calculated using CSA (Canadaian Standard Association) Code provisions and recent proposedequations. It is shown that the FRP wrap increases the strength and ductility of circular columns,significantly. The recent proposed equations correlate well with the test results of circular and squarecolumn with rounded corners. According to the test results, the FRP wrap did not increase thestrength of square columns with sharp corners. However, the square column with rounded cornersexhibited a higher strength and ductility compared to those with sharp corners.