Estimation of the Ductility of Web-Bonded FRP Beams for Assessment of Strengthened RC Exterior Joints

Abstract

Beam-column joints in Reinforced Concrete (RC) moment resisting frame (MRF) subjected to lateral loads can be critical regions. They must therefore be designed adequately in order 10 dissipate large amounts of energy without a significant loss of strength and ductility. When the joint are inadequately designed or damaged under unanticipated loads, web-bonded FRP is one of the possible strengthening methods that can be used. In this paper, a computer model is presented in order to estimate the ductility of strengthened beams and a range of possible design charts is produced to select the type and amount of FRP required for upgrading exterior beam-column joints. Finally, displacement ductility of a subassembly is assessed using these design charts and the result is compared with experiment. The comparison proves the model is acceptable.