Abstract
The flexural response of externally strengthened RC beams with GFRP and HFRP (hybrid FRP) sheets under monotonic and cyclic loading conditions are investigated. Fourteen beams in two series (Series1and 2) were cast for this study. Each series consisted of seven beams. A total number of 14 beams were cast, out of which 2 beams considered as control specimen. The 12 beams were externally strengthened with GFRP sheets (4 beams) and HFRP sheets (8 beams). Series 1 and Series 2 beams were tested for two-point static and cyclic loads. The experimental for ultimate strength, deformation, stiffness, ductility, energy absorption and modes of failures are conversed for all the tested beams. The peak load for the RC beams tested specimens under static loads were computed using ACI 440.2R-08 guidelines. An optimum increase of 171.43 % in ultimate load carrying capacity was found for the beam strengthened with HFRP sheets than the control beam. Also, the predicted ultimate loads exhibited the good convergence with the test results.
Keywords: cyclic; flexure; FRP; hybrid; RC beams