The Influence of CFRP Orientation Angle on the Shear Strength of RC Beams

Abstract

Background: Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) sheets are widely used for strengthening and repairing reinforced concrete structures. Previous experimental studies have shown that strengthening Reinforced Concrete (RC) beams with CFRP sheet can be greatly influenced by the configuration, orientation and properties of the CFRP sheets. Objective: The behaviour of RC beams, strengthened with 60° and 45° inclined CFRP sheets, has not clearly explained. Method: Thus, an experimental program, proposed in this paper, investigates the shear behaviour of RC beams strengthened with CFRP sheets under different orientation angles including 0˚, 45˚, 60˚ and 90˚. Result: The study shows that strengthening RC beams with CFRP is highly influenced by the orientation angle of the sheets. The influence of CFRP sheets is remarkable on increasing the ultimate deflection, ductility and shear strength of RC beams. Conclusion: It is beneficial to strengthen RC beams, which are weak in shear, obliquely using 45˚ or 60˚ inclined CFRP sheets.