BEHAVIOR OF TIMBER BEAMS STRENGTHENED WITH CFRP

Abstract

This paper shows a study on the flexural behavior of Larch and Douglas Fir beams strengthened with Carbon Fibre Reinforced Polymers (CFRP). 60 specimens are subjected to a three-point bending test; some are reinforced only on their lower face, and others on the lower and lateral faces (U-shape reinforcement). The maximum load and the mid-span deflection at rupture lead to the determination of the mechanical properties of timber elements. A finite element analysis is proposed to complete the experimental analysis of the flexural behavior of the beams. An elasto-plastic behavior is assumed for reinforced timber and interface elements are used to model the interaction between CFRP and timber. It is observed that the predicted FE results are in good agreement with the measured test data.