Prestressed FRP systems

Abstract

This chapter provides an overview on the state-of-the-art in prestressing systems for the structural retrofitting of reinforced concrete (RC) structures using Externally Bonded (EB) Fibre Reinforced Polymers (FRP). Focus is put on flexural strengthening, which currently is the most common application field for composite materials in structural engineering. The manuscript provides information regarding commercially available prestressing systems and their anchorage procedures. In addition to conventional mechanical anchorages, the innovative ‘gradient anchorage’ that lacks any remaining plates or bolts is also presented. Additionally, the authors mention various current prototypes at the laboratory-scale level. Performed experimental investigations, results, and conclusions represent the core content of this chapter. Several studies from various universities and research institutes worldwide are presented and explained. In these research projects, the previously mentioned systems are applied to specific reinforced or prestressed reinforced concrete members for strengthening purposes. Static and/or dynamic loading indicate the efficiency of the retrofitting concept compared to the reference structure. Generally, prestressed FRP will be demonstrated to follow the principle of conventional prestressed concrete by resulting in higher cracking, yielding, and bearing loads. Especially under service loads, the structural behaviour is improved

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