an experimental study on frp strengthened reinforced concrete frames under simulated seismic loading

the current study focuses on the experimental investigation of frp strengthening of rc portal frame subjected to combined vertical and horizontal loads. the main target of this research is to enhance the proposed structural properties that the rc portal frame had before the seismic occurrences by providing retrofitting of both columns and joints with more deformation capacity. the effect of various parameters on the effectiveness of frp is examined through 1/3 scaled testing of 6 single bay rc portal frames. comparisons between intact and retrofitted specimens are discussed in detail in terms of local and global performance modes. the information about the crack development, the damage characteristics, the hysteretic curves, the skeleton curves of frame and energy dissipation curves were presented. in addition, the strength and stiffness of frames were measured. test results indicate that the frp rehabilitated frame shows a good hysteretic energy capacity which indicates that this frame has a better seismic behaviour. the results provide an important insight to the role of frp in improving the earthquake resistance of frame buildings.