Strengthening of reinforced concrete beam with polyvinyl alcohol cementitious composites and basalt fiber fabric

Abstract

A great deal of research has been carried out during the past few decades and is continuing on the application of fiber reinforced composites laminates and wrappings in strengthening reinforced concrete structural members Using fiber reinforced composites in concrete as well as external wrappings is an effective way to strengthen and repair the structural members so as to increase the life period of the structures The incorporation of fiber composites or fiber wrappings in reinforced concrete structures increases the tensile strength enhances the resistance to cracking and deformation and improves the energy absorption capacity of the structural elements Many new types of strengthening method involving various kinds of materials having different properties have been evolved to improve the mechanical and strength properties of concrete structural members The overall aim of the present research is to formulate a new cementitious composite and a new wrapping material made up of naturally occurring substance for application in strengthening the structural members In the present study Poly Vinyl Alcohol Cementitious Composites PVCC using polyvinyl alcohol fiber was developed and during casting of the beam specimens it was provided at the bottom of the beam specimens at cover zone instead of cover thickness Another technique namely wrapping of the beam specimens with Basalt Fiber Fabric was adopted and experimental investigation was carried out Two methods of wrapping were followed In the first instance the beam specimens were wrapped with basalt fiber fabric at the bottom only In the second instance the beam specimens were wrapped with basalt fiber fabric at the bottom and side faces of the beam up to neutral axis The basalt fiber fabric was affixed externally to the beam using epoxy resin newline