Behavior of R.C. T-Beams Strengthened with Glued Steel Plate

Abstract

The paper discusses the experimental research carried out at Sheffield University (1) by the author. The main aim of this paper is to study the structural behaviors of Tbeams strengthened by glued steel plates anchored at the ends withL-shaped plates to prevent the premature debonding failure. Further, the relative performance of external plates was compared with equivalent internal reinforcement designed to achieve the same ultimate strength. Results are presented for 24 T-beams; the variables studied were concrete strength (20-50Mpa), plate thickness (1.6-6mm) and double or single plate layers.The results are discussed and demonstrated a reduction in bar strains, central deflections and crack widths was between "30% and 53%" at service load. The theoretical ultimate load of the composite section was achieved for beams with single and double plated and the maximum increase in strength was 41%. Tests results on beams with 25% to 72% of their main reinforcement replaced by steel plates showed that at service load a reduction in bar strains, central deflections and crack widths were between "54% and 66%".