Retrofitting the precast RC wall panels using externally bonded CFRP laminates

Abstract

This work is relevant to the field of earthquake engineering and addresses the seismic behaviour of the reinforced concrete walls. The objectives of the thesis are to investigate the seismic performance of the precast reinforced concrete walls and reveal the effects of the seismic retrofit by externally bonded carbon fibre reinforced polymers laminates. The experimental program consisted of ten quasi-static cyclic tests on near-full scale precast reinforced concrete wall specimens. The experimental variables referred to the opening type and the strengthening condition. The influence of the cut-out opening size on the shear strength, stiffness and ductility was considerable. The retrofitting technique by means of CFRP-EBR laminates improved the behaviour characteristics, primarily in terms of maximum load bearing capcity and maximum displacement; however, certain limitations were identified on the use of this strengthening system in reversed cyclic applications.