Numerical analysis of reinforced concrete beams strengthened in shear by externally bonded (EB) fibre reinforced polymer (FRP) sheets

Abstract

In this paper, a fibre beam model previously developed by the authors for the nonlinear analysis of strengthened elements, including the effects of shear, is used to predict the response of reinforced concrete (RC) beams strengthened in shear with fibre reinforced polymers (FRP) sheets. This model has been extended not only for wrapped configurations but also for debonding failure in order to allow for its application to beams strengthened with U-shaped and side-bonded configurations. When simulating existing experimental tests, the model reproduces, with reasonable accuracy the behavior of the beams, being then a useful tool for practical engineering.