A numerical study on strengthening GFRP-reinforced concrete one-way slabs with openings using cfrp sheets

Abstract

Openings in concrete slabs offer architectural benefits but require careful consideration for maintaining structural integrity. Fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) is considered a robust solution for enhancing the durability of reinforced concrete (RC) structures in challenging conditions. FRP can serve both as reinforcement and as strengthening material to provide a sufficient structural load capacity. This paper investigates the flexural performance of oneway concrete slabs with openings reinforced by glass fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP) bars and strengthened with carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) sheets. Additionally, it aims to examine various factors influencing the performance of RC slabs and to evaluate the effectiveness of CFRP strengthening methods in enhancing the load-carrying capacity of slabs with openings. A parametric study using finite element analysis (FEA) is conducted, focusing on factors that influence structural capacity, including the compressive strength of concrete, GFRP reinforcement ratio, and the layout of CFRP sheets.