Retrofit using CFRP Composites of RC Bridge Columns under Combined Loads

ABSTRACT

Bridge columns subjected to combined axial, shear, flexural, and torsional loads and retrofitted with carbon fiber reinforced polymers (CFRP) have not been extensively studied. Although many retrofit techniques have been implemented in the past on circular columns, these techniques have been predominantly investigated under unidirectional loading profiles and only a few bidirectional loading patterns have been investigated. Essentially no data exists for col-umns under torsional loading or combined with the usual shear and flexural loading conditions. This paper presents test results of four columns tested under different combined loading effects. Amongst these columns one column was subjected to significant damage level and subsequently retrofitted with CFRP composites.