Geopolymer- and Cement-Based Fabric-Reinforced Matrix Composites for Shear Strengthening of Concrete Deep Beams: Laboratory Testing and Numerical Modeling

This paper examines the effectiveness of using carbon fabric-reinforced matrix (C-FRM) composites to improve shear response reinforced concrete (RC) deep beams. Ten RC beams were tested. Test variables included presence internal steel stirrups, number C-FRM layers, angle inclination second layer C-FRM, and type matrix. In absence minimum use one with cementitious geopolymeric matrices resulted in 95% 77% strength gains, respectively. Increasing two layers insignificantly increased gain. Positioning vertical direction tended be more effective than placing it horizontal direction. The gain capacity was less pronounced where a maximum 18% recorded. Numerical models developed predict tested Outcomes numerical modeling good agreement those obtained from tests. inclusion bond–slip law at fabric–matrix interface reduced predicted strength. ratios predicted-to-measured without were, on average, 0.90 0.95, corresponding standard deviations 0.09 0.11,