Abstract

Fiber Reinforced Cementitious Matrix (FRCM) composites can be employed as a valid alternative to Fiber Reinforced Polymers (FRP) composites for strengthening existing reinforced concrete (RC) structures. The weakness of FRCM-concrete joints has been reported to be at the matrix-fiber interface rather than within the concrete substrate, as is usually reported in the case of FRP-concrete joints. The experimental investigations regarding FRCM strengthening available in the literature have been performed by applying the FRCM composite onto a surface that was treated before the application, usually by grinding or sandblasting. However, the role of the substrate characteristics on the failure mechanism of the FRCM composite has not been properly investigated. This paper presents the experimental results obtained from FRCM-concrete joints tested using single-lap direct-shear tests. FRCM composites with different bonded lengths and bonded widths were applied onto concrete specimens with different surface preparations and different concrete strengths. The influence of shrinkage cracks and load distribution along the composite width on the failure modes observed is discussed. In order to avoid the possibility of sudden composite detachment failure, the authors recommend that the substrate surface should be treated, and the matrix shrinkage should be controlled.

Department(s)

Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering

Comments

Missouri University of Science and Technology, Grant None

Keywords and Phrases

Bond; Failure mode; FRCM composites; Substrate characteristics

International Standard Serial Number (ISSN)

0950-0618

Document Type

Article - Journal

Document Version

Citation

File Type

text

Language(s)

English

Rights

© 2024 Elsevier, All rights reserved.

Publication Date

30 Dec 2015

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