MODELING OF REINFORCED CONCRETE BEAMS STRENGHTENING USING EPOXY BONDED STEEL PLATES

Abstract

The article deals with the question of epoxy bonded steel plates for strengthening of building structures in world practice.

The problem of strengthening and renewal of the functional performance of building structures consists in the solution of such a task as the increasing of bearing capacity of structures. The given task is closely related to both change of functionality of a building, and the increasing of loading on its separate structural elements.

One of the principal ways of structure strengthening is the building-up of its cross-section. Such a strengthening, which is performed by gluing steel or composite polymeric fiber, is a quite efficient way of strengthening, which is widely used abroad.

The primary reasons for the strengthening of concrete structures are typically to increase existing elements’ capacity to carry new loads or to resolve an existing deficiency. Several strengthening techniques such as section enlargement, externally bonded fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) reinforcement, supplemental steel elements, and post-tensioning can be employed to increase the load carrying capacity and improve serviceability of existing structures. However, there are many technical factors that should be considered when selecting a strengthening system. In addition to technical concerns such as serviceability, strength, durability, appearance, and fire rating, one should consider non-technical factors such as constructability, aesthetics and cost.