Structural testing of compression members reinforced with FRP bars
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Faculty of Civil Engineering, Warsaw University of Technology, Poland
Submission date: 2024-12-23
Final revision date: 2025-03-12
Acceptance date: 2025-03-13
Publication date: 2025-06-16
Corresponding author
Maria Włodarczyk
Faculty of Civil Engineering, Warsaw University of Technology, Al. Armii Ludowej 16, 00-637, Warsaw, Poland
Archives of Civil Engineering 2025;71(2):659-672
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ABSTRACT
The Fibre Reinforced Polymer (FRP) bars are increasingly used as an alternative to steel reinforcement in concrete structures. Their wide applicability is due to their properties such as high strength, resistance to corrosion, easy cutting, etc. For many years, research has been conducted on the identification of properties and the possibility of application of FRP bars in structural members as the alternative to steel reinforcement. This paper presents results of experimental tests of eight seriers of low concrete columns reinforced with BFRP (Basalt Fibre Reinforced Polymer) and HFRP (Hybrid Fibre Reinforced Polymer) bars. All compression members tested were subjected to axial loading. Observed failure modes are presented along with comparison of the experimental and the predicted ultimate capacities of the regarded columns.
The performed tests confirm the applicability of the FRP bars in compression elements, although a larger number of tests is needed to investigate the possible range of their application. Reported discrepancy between the measured and the predicted limit load requires additional research on formulation of the calculation procedures and reinforcement detailing. Based on the observed failure mechanisms, the stirrup spacing seems to be very important in the regarded structural elements. Another noticed problem in more successful application of FRP bars, is their high ductility compared to concrete. Elongation developed in columns during increase of compressive loading causes premature splitting of concrete cover.
The use of FRP-based bars as an alternative to steel in compressed elements requires an individual approach, practical engineering experience, as well as further experimental research.