STRENGTH OF SHORT SQUARE COLUMNS CONFINED WITH GFRP WRAPS

Document Type : Original Article

Author

Faculty of Engineering, Minoufiya University, Shebin El-Kom, Egypt

Abstract

This research reports the results of an experimental investigation carried out on short
noncircular columns strengthened with GFRP wraps. A total number of 45 specimens
(100x100x500mm) were tested under concentric loads. The major parameters of the study were
the strengthening configuration including the number of GFRP layers and extension of the
composite along the column height, volume fraction of the transverse reinforcement and degree of
column surface roughness. Using the hand lay-up technique, continuous layers of a woven
fiberglass fabric were bonded along the column height to introduce a confining pressure, which
increases the apparent concrete compressive strength and consequently the column capacity. The
results indicated that significant increase in the ultimate load and ductility improvement could be
achieved by proper application of GFRP wraps.

Keywords