Closure to “Seismic Behavior of GFRP-Reinforced Concrete Interior Beam–Column–Slab Subassemblies” by Shervin K. Ghomi and Ehab El-Salakawy

Abstract

Researchers discuss the findings of the study on seismic behavior of GFRP-reinforced concrete interior beam-column-slab subassemblies. They state that it is necessary to differentiate between the effect of the column axial load and the effect of secondary moments on the behavior of beam–column connections. Secondary moments are the exertion of additional moments due to deviation of the column axis from the line of axial load application. Discussions regarding column-to-beam flexural strength ratio including the possible effect of cast-in-situ slabs, limitations of the current FRP-RC guidelines, and the sensitivity of GFRP-RC beam–column connections to the contribution of cast-in-situ slabs compared to steel-RC ones have been provided in the introduction section of the study. The investigations reveal that the effective slab width was calculated at the maximum lateral load, which corresponds to the maximum beam moment. The effective slab width in the GFRP-RC beam–column–slab specimen (G-SL) has been measured at 5% drift ratio.