Performance prediction of eccentrically loaded RC columns wrapped with FRP

ABSTRACT

This paper presents an analytical model for performance prediction of eccentrically loaded reinforced concrete    (RC) columns wrapped with externally bonded fiber reinforced polymers (FRP). The proposed model is based on realistic materials’ laws, and accounts for the change in geometry caused by the lateral deformation under eccentric loading. It also takes into consideration the confinement effect caused by FRP wrapping system at various load eccentricities.

An experimental program was carried out to examine the model’s accuracy. Test parameters included the confinement condition (No wrapping, full FRP-wrapping, and partial FRPwrapping), and the eccentricity-to-section height (e/h) ratio (0.3, 0.43, 0.57, and 0.86). Research findings indicated that the strength gain caused by FRP wrapping system was inversely proportional to the eccentricity ratio. A comparison between the analytical and the experimental results has demonstrated the model’s accuracy and validity.