Retrofitting of Concrete Structures Using External Pressure on Structural Elements - Study Cases.

Document Type : Research Studies

Authors

1 Faculty of Engineering, Zagazig University, The Egyptian Arab Republic

2 Faculty of Engineering, Zagazig University, The Egyptian Arab Republic.

Abstract

Retrofitting of reinforced concrete members especially columns and beams are of great importance, as these elements constitute the main elements for the resistance of both vertical and lateral loads.
Several methods and techniques have been developed for strengthening these elements. These methods include, concrete and steel jackets and strengthening using either carbon or glass fiber reinforcement. The work herein, presents details of an innovative technique for strengthening the reinforced concrete elements specially beams, columns and beam-column connection. The method is based on applying external active confining pressure along the element length through a set of elongated members and fixing between them using number of strips. The technique increases the strength and ductility of the reinforced concrete elements without significantly increasing the dimensions or weights of these elements. In addition, the technique reduces the lateral strains, internal cracking, and volume increase when adding more loads on these elements. This paper presents also number of concrete structures studied successfully by the suggested technique.s

Main Subjects