Flexural Characteristics of RC Beams Retrofitted using FRP and Cement Matrix Composite

Abstract

In this study flexural strength of beams retrofitted using cement matrix composite and conventional epoxy binder are compared. The matrix is made using cement, fly ash, admixtures and fibres. For this study, ten beams of cross section 100×135 mm and overall length of 1m are casted. Two of the beams served as control beams. The other eight beams are strengthened using EB technique. Group 1 having 2 beams strengthened with glass fibers and other 2 beams with sisal fibers using cement matrix composite. Group 2, having 2 beams strengthened with glass fibers and 2 beams with sisal fibers using sikadur lp 32 epoxy binder. Both the fibers are applied in the flexure zone in both above describe groups. Results are compared between retrofitted beams using cement matrix composite and conventional artificial binder which shows cement matrix composite is an effective alternate of the epoxy binder.